Robert E. Lee, a pivotal figure in American history, was honored with a 30-cent commemorative postage stamp. This stamp, issued decades ago, sparked considerable discussion and remains a subject of ongoing interest. This article delves into the history of this particular stamp, its design, the controversies surrounding its release, and its lasting significance.
What is the significance of the Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp?
The 30-cent Robert E. Lee stamp held significance as part of a larger series commemorating prominent figures in American history. Its release aimed to recognize Lee's role as a military leader during the Civil War, albeit a controversial one. The stamp's issuance itself became a point of contention, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding Lee's legacy and the complexities of representing historical figures who held opposing viewpoints on significant national events. The stamp served as a visual representation of this ongoing national conversation. It’s not just about the stamp itself; it's about the conversations and interpretations it triggered and continues to trigger.
When was the Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp issued?
Determining the precise issue date requires further research into the historical records of the United States Postal Service. Specific details on the exact release date of the 30-cent Robert E. Lee stamp are not readily available in quick online searches. However, considering the typical issuance patterns of commemorative stamps, it's likely to have been released sometime during the late 20th century, potentially as part of a larger series focused on Civil War figures or prominent military leaders. A more thorough search through postal service archives would provide the definitive answer.
Who designed the Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp?
Unfortunately, without access to the specific archives detailing the design and issuance of this particular stamp, identifying the designer is currently impossible. The U.S. Postal Service's website and other readily accessible online resources do not readily provide this information for older stamps. Accessing the USPS archives or specialized philatelic databases would be necessary to pinpoint the designer's name.
What does the Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp look like?
While a precise visual description cannot be provided without an image of the specific stamp, it's likely that the design featured a portrait of Robert E. Lee, possibly incorporating elements representative of his military career or the Civil War era. Commemorative stamps often include elements relating to the subject's life, profession, or contributions to society. A search through online philatelic resources or historical stamp catalogs might yield an image of the 30-cent Lee stamp.
Why was there controversy surrounding the Robert E. Lee stamp?
The controversy stems from the complex and often conflicting interpretations of Robert E. Lee's legacy. While undeniably a skilled military commander, Lee's unwavering commitment to the Confederacy and the institution of slavery makes his commemoration a sensitive issue for many. The debate reflects broader discussions surrounding the representation of controversial historical figures and the ongoing reconciliation with the nation's past. The stamp's release arguably became a lightning rod for these larger societal conversations about race, history, and national identity.
Where can I find a Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp?
Finding a Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp would likely require searching online marketplaces specializing in stamp collecting, checking with philatelic societies, or attending stamp shows. The rarity and demand for this particular stamp would depend on several factors, including its condition and overall condition of the stamp. Prices will vary accordingly.
This article provides an overview of the Robert E. Lee 30-cent stamp. Further research into specialized philatelic resources would be necessary to fill in the gaps in information, specifically regarding the precise issue date and the stamp's designer. The stamp remains a compelling example of how commemorative stamps can reflect and even ignite discussions about historical figures and their continuing relevance in contemporary society.
