http://www.wsj.com/articles/confederate ... ss_US_News
Just curious to what some of the thoughts and opinions regarding this are?
As a White/Northerner- I find myself kind of neutral on the whole thing. I understand some Southerners attachment to a "former Glory" and had many a discussion with my Southern Bretheren in the Army about the "War of Northern Aggression" and how the history of the the Civil War is an key part of Southern culture and identity. I am also aware that there certainly is a difference between the Confederate Flag and the Confederate Battle Flag
I can also understand how African American might find the flag offensive in the same way Jews would find the Nazi flag offensive. I can also understandhow certain groups have "hijacked" the flag to represent an extremist point of view. I also know that the flag started re-appearing over Southern capitals during the fight to maintain racial segregation. So this flag represents many things to many people.
My own feeling is that this flag has no place flying over a state capital or other government buildings. The confederacy lost and the flag represents a serious rebellion agains the United States of America that cost the country more American livesthan all other wars combined. The flag should not be banned, but its rightful place is in museums and historic sites-ie is makes sence to have it at the Gettysburg Battlefield. Those who fly it in their years, bumper stickers etc.. certainly should have the freedom of expression, but probably must should fully understand the history and implications of the emblem(I fear most do not.
What are your thoughts?