The Man Who Would Not Be Washington: Robert E. Lee's Civil War and His Decision That Changed American History - Softcover

Jonathan Horn is an author and former White House presidential speechwriter whose Robert E. Lee biography, The Man Who Would Not Be Washington, was a Washington Post bestseller. Jonathan has appeared on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and PBS NewsHour, and his writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The New York Times’ Disunion series, Politico Magazine, The Daily Beast, The Weekly Standard, and other outlets. A graduate of Yale University, he lives in Bethesda, Maryland, with his wife, daughter, and dog. His latest book is Washington’s End.

“Compelling....a modern and readable perspective on Lee’s enigmatic character.” Source: USA Today

“Jonathan Horn’s fascinating book looks at Lee through the prism of yet another famous man, George Washington. His subtle and sympathetic examination of the Washington-Lee connection helps us understand the Lee question....textured....splendid....Horn’s story is fascinating, thought-provoking, and deeply sad.” Source: National Review

"Very apt...well-written, fair-minded." Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

“[An] interesting study....Jonathan Horn writes well and makes responsible, often vivid, use of his sources.” Source: Weekly Standard

“Thoughtful....Horn carefully draws the connections between the two titular subjects....simply fascinating. Horn is a graceful writer, and when the occasion warrants, has a suitable flair for the dramatic. The pages blaze by....Horn’s excellent book drives home the tragic magnitude of [Lee’s] decision.” Source: City Journal

"[Horn] provides an outstanding book that will be enjoyed by all readers interested in Lee....Horn’s book is a thought-provoking, illuminating look at Lee written from a fresh perspective....extremely well written and recommended to all." Source: Civil War News

“The complexity and multifaceted nuances of most politicaldecisions are masterfully revealed...An excellent addition to the library ofCivil War books. Horn presents not only the historical record, but also thepathos, irony and tension involved in Lee’s decision and how it reflectedissues in his personal life. The author’s work reads very much like a novel andis suitable for both serious historians and lovers of engaging stories.” Source: The Missourian

“Captures the many facets of Robert E. Lee’s crowded life.... A seminal contribution of significant historiographical value.” Source: Library Journal, STARRED review

“Stirring and elegant....[Horn] chronicles Lee’s life with a vitality that captivates our imagination and keeps us glued to Lee’s story.With graceful vigor, he traces Lee from his childhood to his days at West Point...and ultimately to his decision to resign his commission in the U.S. Army....Horn’s illuminating study offers a fascinating comparison between two figures who shaped American history.” Source: BookPage

"Horn’s work is unique and appealing in that it gives a more human side to the story." Source: Rocky Mount Telegram