Today in history, on February 4, 1865, Robert E. Lee was selected as the Confederate forces’ general-in-chief. Debate over the position had been raging since February of 1862. Confederate President Jefferson Davis feared it would give one man too much power independent of the president. By 1865, though, Lee had proven himself worthy of the role with his actions as commander of the Army of Northern Virginia.

As the Civil War erupted, Lee, a 30-year veteran, found himself in a profound moral quandary. He disagreed with secession, yet his unwavering loyalty to his beloved Virginia was unshakeable. Lee made the difficult decision to resign from the U.S. Army, declined an offer to lead the Union forces, and instead became President Davis’s military adviser. The following year, he was entrusted with the command of the Army of Northern Virginia.

Lee’s brilliant tactics won several key victories for the South. However, his offensives in the North went poorly. When President Davis agreed to appoint Lee as general-in-chief, the Civil War was nearing its end. It was more an acknowledgment of Lee’s continuous contributions than a promotion.

Robert E. Lee left behind a complicated legacy. Although he’s hailed as one of the greatest military minds, he defended secession and slavery. After the war, he was an outspoken advocate for reconciliation and peace, but he maintained his belief in white supremacy. Debate continues to this day about how he should be remembered.