Did Robert E. Lee Think the War was Lost After the Battle of Gettysburg?

After the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place from July 1 to July 3, 1863, Robert E. Lee's perspective on the war was complex. While the defeat at Gettysburg marked a significant setback for the Confederate Army and was a turning point in the Civil War, Lee did not immediately conclude that the war was lost. Instead, he and his army continued to fight, demonstrating resilience and hope for victory until the ultimate Confederate surrender two years later.

Lee's Initial Response to Gettysburg

Following the Battle of Gettysburg, Lee faced considerable criticism and internal debate over his strategies. Despite the loss, he maintained a belief in the possibility of victory. His confidence was rooted in the resilience of the Confederate cause and his hope that political and military circumstances might shift in favor of the South.

Continuing the Fight

Lee did not give up after Gettysburg. Instead, he continued to engage Union forces in subsequent battles, demonstrating his strategic acumen. He even made the bold move to retreat to Virginia, a decision that many found surprising given the Confederate defeat. This decision was strategic and aimed at maintaining the morale and combat capability of his army.

Understanding the Contrast

No, Gettysburg was not a crushing defeat. While the battle was significant, both sides suffered heavy casualties, and Lee managed to retreat to Virginia. Lee knew that the South was losing the war, but he also knew that the war was far from over. Understanding that there was a difference between fighting a losing war and having lost a war, Lee believed that his army was not yet defeated. Lee emphasized the importance of adopting a defensive strategy, a stance he should have pursued from the start of the war. This strategy involved finding good ground, setting defensive positions, and forcing the enemy to attack.

Strategic Aim: Outlasting the Union

Lee hoped to enhance the possibility of achieving a peaceful resolution by extending the conflict and outlasting the will of the Union. Each day saw casualty lists, and families learned of losses. Lee believed that eventually, the people would demand an end to the war and force their politicians to seek peace.

Failure to Extend Peace through Conflict

This did not happen. The Battle of Gettysburg ended on July 3, and the fall of Vicksburg on July 4 gave the people hope. When Ulysses S. Grant was appointed overall commander, both the people and politicians knew they had a general who fought to win. Grant's Overland Campaign of 1864 and the fall of Atlanta became the final blows to the Confederacy. The South knew they were defeated, and the question became: when would the war end, and how many more would have to die?