The Narrow Escape: Robert E. Lee and the Potential for Imprisonment
If Abraham Lincoln had been assassinated prior to Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox, the potential for the Confederate leadership, including Lee himself, to face justice in the form of imprisonment or capital punishment, would have been far greater.
The Assassination Scenario
If Lincoln had fallen victim to the assassination attempt in 1865, the course of history may have drastically altered. The rebel leadership, including Lee, would likely have faced severe legal repercussions, with the possibility of imprisonment or even execution. The severity of the situation was such that the issue of treason could have led to dire consequences for any Confederate officers charged with such crimes.
Indictment for Treason
In the aftermath of the Civil War, Robert E. Lee was indeed indicted for treason, along with several other Confederate officers. The charges against them were based on their leadership roles during the conflict. The intensity of the situation was compounded by the fact that the federal government was intent on exacting justice for the Union's victory.
US Grant's Intervention
Avoiding the noose was not entirely out of the question, however, as US Grant, who was a key figure in the surrender at Appomattox, stepped in to mitigate potential legal repercussions. Grant wrote to President Andrew Johnson, pleading on Lee's behalf. In the letter, Grant explicitly stated that the terms of surrender at Appomattox included a pardon for Lee, provided he lived his life peacefully. This was a crucial negotiation point that involved a thick tapestry of legal and political maneuvering.
Grant's Determination and The Consequences
Grant's determination to stand firm and protect Lee was significant. When he threatened to resign his commission if the parole agreement was not honored, the federal government was forced to reconsider its position. Grant's willingness to step down from a position of high authority demonstrated the deep commitment to justice and the recognition of Lee's role in safeguarding the peace.
Personal Consequences for Lee's Family
The personal toll of the post-war legal proceedings extended beyond just Lee. His wife's plantation, Arlington, was seized by Montgomery Meigs for the creation of Arlington National Cemetery. This action had a profound impact on the Lee family, as it resulted in the loss of a significant portion of their livelihood and the personal property of the family.
Compensation Over Time
Despite the loss, the family eventually received compensation for the plantation, indicating a broader trend of reconciliation and the normalization of relations post-war. The successful legal proceedings against Confederate leaders, including Lee, were characterized by moments of tension and pressure but ultimately resulted in a more measured response from the federal government due to Grant's intervention.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the potential for imprisonment or capital punishment for Robert E. Lee and other Confederate leaders was a real threat in the aftermath of the Civil War. However, the intervention of US Grant and the political climate of the time, led by President Andrew Johnson, managed to spare them from the most severe of legal repercussions. This event serves as a pivotal moment in American history, showcasing the complexities of post-war reconciliation and the power of negotiation in shaping the legal outcome of a significant conflict.