This work investigates the life and military career of Robert E. Lee to determine his role and influence during the American Civil War. Douglas Southall Freeman, a preeminent historian of the period, utilizes extensive primary source material and military records to construct a detailed account of Lee's strategic decisions and personal conduct. The text argues that Lee's leadership was the central pillar of the Confederate war effort, providing a comprehensive examination of his command style and tactical methodology.

Historians and scholars frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the military history of the American Civil War. While readers often note the dense, academic nature of the prose, it remains a standard reference for those studying the life of Robert E. Lee.