What was Robert E. Lee's profession after the American Civil War?

The postwar prospects of Robert E. Lee, beloved commander of the Army of Northern Virginia, were no clearer than those of his men. When he left Appomattox Court House, he began a journey that would take him away from a soldier's life in the field and eventually to Lexington, Virginia, where his talent for leadership would serve him well as president of a small college.

When the trustees of Washington College in Lexington were looking for a new president, they decided that Lee was the perfect choice. He had been superintendent of West Point earlier in his military career, and more importantly, he had a very recognizable name in 1865.

The college, mired in financial difficulties, needed a prominent person to help raise funds. At first Lee hesitated; but, on the advice of friends and family, he eventually accepted the position. He tirelessly worked as president of Washington College from 1865 until October 1870 when he died of a massive stroke in his home on the college campus.