What is clear is that Grant’s support for Parker was consistent throughout the Commissioner period.

When the investigation came, Grant did not abandon him.

The resignation was Parker’s choice, made in a political environment where the investigation had become unsustainable regardless of its ultimate findings.

Appomattox in History and Memory

The battle of Appomattox Court House, which preceded the surrender by a day, was the Army of Northern Virginia’s last engagement.

Lee’s forces, depleted, surrounded, and without a credible path to escape or resupply, had attempted a final breakout on the morning of April 9 and had been stopped.

Lee concluded that further resistance was futile and sent a flag of truce to Grant.