3 Yet, unlike other cavalrymen, Stuart knew how to execute such raids with discretion and stealth. Twice, Stuart encircled the Army of the Potomac, captured resources, while sustaining minimal casualties. 4 Therefore, Stuart could be recognized as an excellent tactician and cavalry general. .
Jeb Stuart was also a good leader of men; a quality each successful and admired general has. Full of zeal and courage, his troopers fought bravely alongside him. Stuart could arguably be considered as the symbol of patriotism of the Confederacy. Union cavalry generals on the other hand didn't express the same enthusiasm. Stuart was a dashing and swashbuckling cavalier, comparable to Light Horse' Harry, a famous American revolutionary horseman; whose charisma boosted the morale of his fellow horsemen. Being a cavalry leader, Stuart was amongst his brigade during raids and thus, his men strived for more spoils. For example, during the prelude of Battle of Gettysburg, Stuart's brigade captured 20,000 wagons. 5 Stuart would not allow himself to disappoint his men and fought till the end. He did not accept defeat easily and sacrificed his life for victory. Even as he was dying, following the clash at Yellow Tavern, Stuart said, "I'd rather die than be whipped-. 6 Stuart's commitment and leadership skills combined with his tactics brought about series of successful raids and military engagements. .
General Robert E. Lee, the most revered confederate general is regarded as one of the greatest American generals in history. Brigadier-General Cooke, one of Lee's important staff officers remarked that Lee was the reflection of an ideal soldier, almost in the same league as Washington. 7 At the outbreak of the Civil War, Lee was the most experienced and effective soldier, hence, was offered the command of the Union Army. A great strategist, tactician, leader, loyal and zealous, Lee had it all. Lee became highly respected in the North and a living legend in the South.
