Charles Lee

Charles Lee (February 6, 1732 [O.S. 26 January 1731] – October 2, 1782) served as a general of the Continental Army during the American War of Independence.

He also serves earlier in the British Army during the Seven Years War.

He sells his commission after the Seven Years War and serves for a time in the Polish army of King Stanislaus II.

Lee moves to North America in 1773 and buys an estate in Virginia.

When the fighting breaks out in the American War of Independence in 1775, he volunteers to serve with rebel forces.

Lee's ambitions to become Commander in Chief of the Continental Army are thwarted by the appointment of George Washington to this post.

During 1776, forces under his command repulse a British attempt to capture Charleston, which boosts his standing with the army and Congress.

Later this year, he is captured by British cavalry under Banastre Tarleton; he is held by the British as a prisoner until exchanged in 1778.

During the decisive Battle of Monmouth later this year, Lee leads an assault on the British that miscarries.

He is subsequently court-martialed and his military service brought to an end.

He dies in Philadelphia in 1782.

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