American Saddlebred’s place in the Civil War

The Civil War was one of American history's most catastrophic and defining events. It shook the nation's very foundations as it struggled with issues of states' rights, slavery, and political power struggles. One of the most significant outcomes of the war was the surrender of General Robert E. Lee, the commander of the Confederate Army, and the end of the Confederacy. Following Lee's surrender, General Ulysses S. Grant took a magnanimous step and returned the horses his army had confiscated from the Confederate soldiers. The decision was a symbol of reconciliation and exemplified chivalry.

Both General Lee-and General Grant rode American saddlebred horses, and so did the entire Confederate command. General Lee’s horse was named Traveler, a gray of 16 hands, notable for his speed, strength and courage in combat. Lee acquired him in 1862 and rode him in many battles. Traveler outlived Lee by a few months there is controversy General Grant’s horse who was named Cincinnati, some say he was a saddlebred, others a thoroughbred.  After the Civil War, the American horse became known as the American Saddlebred. 

Images: General Lee with Traveler (left) and General Grant with his horse Cincinnati (right).