Robert E. Lee Robert E. Lee was born on January 19, 1807 in Stafford, Virginia. The son of Lighthorse Harry Lee and was educated at the U.S. Military academy. In 1829 he graduated second in his class receiving a commission as second lieutenant in 1836 and captain in 1838. He distinguished himself in the Mexican War and was wounded in the storming of Chapultepec in 1847; for his meritorious service he received his third promotion in rank. He became superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy and later appointed colonel of calvery. He was in command of the Department of Texas in 1860 and early the following year