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Today in History: Confederate General Robert E. Lee Surrenders to End the Civil War
04/09/10
On April 9, 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee signed the Articles of Agreement Relating to the Surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, dictated by Union General Ulysses S. Grant. Lee’s surrender signaled the end of the Civil War.
The two generals met in the home of Wilmer McLean in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia. At Lee’s request, Grant wrote out the terms of surrender. After both men signed the historic document, Lee shook hands with Grant, bowed to the other officers present, and withdrew.
Lee broke the news to his troops in his famous farewell letter, also known as General Order No. 9. “After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources,” he wrote. “You may take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you his blessing and protection.”
Read the ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT RELATING TO THE SURRENDER OF THE ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Read ROBERT E. LEE’S GENERAL ORDER NO. 9