My family bloodline is bound up in a dark part of American history. With a name like Robert Lee the question I undoubtedly receive most about my name is, "Are you related to him?" and the answer is yes, yes I am. I am a descendent of the Lees of Virginia, whenever I visit the Arlington House at Arlington National Cemetery I see where my family lived and played, and yes, owned people. I see where Robert Edward Lee, my ancestor, spent probably sleepless nights deciding what to do about the problem our nation faced.
Naturally, when I was younger, I wanted to know everything about where I came from. I wanted to know all about this general in the Army of Northern Virginia, but as I grew in knowledge and stature, I found myself incredibly conflicted and riddled with guilt. I had a small confederate flag, given to me by a friend to remind me of my heritage. I don't know where that flag is anymore, and frankly that's for the best.
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