Presented in this lot is a Rare First Edition of, "Robert E. Lee" by John Esten Cooke, 1871, publisher D. Appleton & Company, New York. Published just shortly after Lee's death, the book is considered an early classic on the Southern hero. Features all the original vintage illustrations, detailed maps and a frontis portrait of General Lee. This important contemporary biography of Lee is by historian and novelist John Cooke who, at the outbreak of war, became an ardent secessionist and joined Confederate forces after Virginia's secession. Throughout the war, he served as a staff officer in the Army of Northern Virginia, coming into close contact with Lee. Cooke's biography became an early classic on the Southern hero, published shortly after Lee's death and in the fury of the formulation of Lee mythology. Cooke's association with Lee in the field during the last months of the war gives the work a certain usefulness, and the tone is respectful and affectionate. Strongly pro-Confederate, the biography nonetheless avoids partisan bitterness that characterizes so much of the literature from this period. From a literary viewpoint the book stands up rather well. The author examines Lee's early life then abruptly moves to the war near Richmond, where Lee rose to prominence. Subsequent chapters examine the movements on the Chickahominy, the advance northward, Lee's invasion of Maryland, Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, the final campaign of 1863, the last campaigns and Lee's last days. The olive coloured cloth bound stamped gold gilt illustrated hardcover is in nice condition, gold gilt on cover and spine illustration sword hilt and sash, front cover gilt illustration of a flower. Slight scuffing and staining exhibited on covers, edges. Intact pages exhibit age tanning. Measures 5.75"W x 9.25"L x 2.25"D. The weight is approx. 3lb 2oz.