Instead of tearing down or covering up these statues, in the case of Robert E. Lee, why not ADD some of the honorable and noteworthy quotes from the man to the base of the statue(s) to truly educate those too lazy to do the proper research.

Lee, at various times in his life, is quoted as:

"In this enlightened age, there are few I believe, but what will acknowledge, that slavery as an institution is a moral and political evil in any country. It is useless to expatiate on its disadvantages."

"We should live, act, and say nothing to the injury of anyone. It is not only best as a matter of principle, but it is the path to peace and honor."

"I have fought against the people of the North because I believed they were seeking to wrest from the South its dearest rights. But I have never cherished toward them bitter or vindictive feelings, and I have never seen the day when I did not pray for them."

This could go on and on. Literally, historical, credible, actual books are filled with the man's full character and worth. When we sit in judgment of people and a way of life when we are so far removed in time and culture, most are only showing their ignorance. 100 years from now I guarantee you some will be condemning some cause or movement given different context that time ultimately brings.