[ExGeeEye]

Personal opinion: it is a key part of the post-war reconciliation (to which some on both sides will not agree to this day) to recognize that both sides consisted of Americans who revered, in conflicting ways, the ideals of the founders of the United States. By that standard, R.E. Lee, T.J. Jackson, et al can be called today "patriotic Americans" even if, for a time, their patriotism was applied to other than the government in Washington.

This from th Gt.Gt. Grandson of a member of the 161st NY Vols.

Then there is the fact that students of history and military men can admire the skill and bravery even of their opponents, even in the midst of conflict; Patton and Montgomery cordially hated each other, and admired Rommel, Monty to the point of keeping Rommel's portrait in his HQ.

This from the nephew of a member of the 101st Abn Div, wounded at the Bulge.

And I did my time too :)

[dinoparty]

I agree with what you say (from a great great great great nephew of a soldier in the 140th PA, who fought at Chancellorsville and in the Wheatfield at Gettysburg -- this is the closest relative I could find...)

I understand and agree that it was essential to reunify and heal, and accusations and trials would have definitely been counterproductive. However, this does not mean that the rebel leaders were not blameworthy.