Appomattox Court House 1865: Lee Surrenders — Reading Comprehension

On April 9, 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia. This event did not happen suddenly, but was the result of a long and bloody conflict known as the American Civil War. Both sides had endured enormous losses, and by early 1865, the Confederate army was facing overwhelming challenges. Soldiers lacked supplies, food was scarce, and morale was low. In contrast, the Union army was better equipped and had more soldiers. The difference in resources was a major factor in the eventual outcome of the war.

One of the central problems was the Confederacy’s inability to maintain its armies in the field. Many soldiers were exhausted or had deserted. Lee’s army had been retreating from Richmond, the Confederate capital, after it was captured by Union forces. As Union troops under Grant pressed harder, Lee hoped to reach supplies farther west, but Union cavalry blocked his path. This forced Lee into a desperate situation, which led to his decision to surrender.

The motivations of both commanders were complex. Lee wanted to avoid further unnecessary suffering. He understood that continued fighting would only bring more devastation to soldiers and civilians. Grant, on the other hand, sought to end the war quickly and peacefully. He knew that punishing the defeated South harshly could make national reconciliation difficult. Grant's famous words, “The war is over; the rebels are our countrymen again,” showed his desire for unity. This quote reflected his belief in healing the nation rather than deepening its wounds.

The surrender at Appomattox was not just a military event; it was a turning point with social and political consequences. For Union soldiers, it was a victory, but one that came at a high cost. For Southern soldiers and civilians, it was a time of uncertainty and loss. Some Confederates felt relief that the devastation would end, while others felt anger or despair about the future. African Americans, many of whom had escaped slavery or fought for the Union, saw hope for freedom and equality, but also faced new challenges in the years to come.

There were contradictions in how the surrender was viewed. Some Northerners wanted harsh punishment for the South, while others agreed with Grant’s policy of leniency. Many Southerners worried about what would happen next, particularly regarding land, rights, and the future of emancipation. The outcome depended on decisions made by leaders during Reconstruction, the process of rebuilding the South and integrating freed people into American society.

The surrender at Appomattox Court House demonstrated the importance of leadership, compromise, and vision. Grant allowed Confederate officers to keep their swords and horses, a gesture of respect intended to promote peace. This decision helped set the tone for national healing, although real unity would take years and face many obstacles. The end of the Civil War did not solve every problem, but it was a critical step toward a more unified nation.

Interesting Fact: Interesting Fact: The home where the surrender took place belonged to Wilmer McLean, who had moved there to escape the war—only for it to end in his living room!

When did Lee surrender to Grant?

Where did the surrender happen?

Who was the Union general at the surrender?

Why did Lee decide to surrender?

What was Grant’s attitude toward the South?

What does Grant’s quote show?

The surrender ended the Civil War. True or false?

What does 'emancipation' mean?