AUGUST 8, 1863:
Robert E.
Lee, dispirited and ailing after the defeat at Gettysburg, tenders his
resignation to C.S. President Jefferson Davis. Lee writes:
"I have been
prompted by these reflections more than once since my return from Pennsylvania
to propose to Your Excellency the propriety of selecting another commander for
this army... No one is more aware than myself of my inability for the duties of
my position. I cannot even accomplish what I myself desire... I, therefore, in
all sincerity, request your Excellency to take measure to supply my
place."
Davis refuses to accept Lee’s resignation.
