[agrandis]

But I wasn't comparing Madison to Washington or Jefferson. I think there is a more glaring difference between some figures in history than others. All human lives DO represent things. I think the difference between Lee and Sherman is gargantuan, for instance, without getting into a cult of personalities. I do rank people in history, in my mind, according to standards that I value. It seems I cannot avoid doing that, and I don't even see it as desirable to do that.

Truth is the important thing in life...along with mercy, but now I'm getting too philosophical. Truth about everything. I think the truth about that whole era in our history is not well illuminated or understood. I think Jeff Davis gets a bad rap in the mainline textbooks. I think Lincoln gets a free pass (though that seems to be changing), and his sins are covered up and excused. That does not mean I think Lincoln is the worst figure in history, or that Jeff Davis is right up there with the Apostle Paul.

PS: As to whether the DofI or the Constition better represents American principles, I don't see a need to choose between those, because they are consistent with each other. The important thing about the Constitution is that it is supposed to be the Law of the Land; the law concerning how laws are to be made; the covenant made between the states in order to belong to each other as a nation. This means it's an extremely important document, even if flawed, and should be taken seriously and defneded.

[stainlessbanner]

Great post, agrandis. I was going for something along those lines, too....

I find it interesting those who refute this article find their defense in comparing Lincoln to other men, rather than hit the facts straight on. Just b/c others may have done those actions, held those thoughts does not make it morally right.

This is a tough read to swallow for those who deal in absolutes.