"I don't think it's necessarily wrong for people to be offended by the battle flag of a revolt that tore the nation apart and cost hundreds of thousands of lives"
i would offer that blaming the south for the civil war exhibits a lack of understanding of the underlying political, economic, and social issues leading up to the 1860 crisis.
There are many good texts on this subject, the one that comes to mind off the top of my head is "ordeal by fire' by james macphearson.
Thank you for your thoughtful responses. I have spent a great deal of time immersed in the history of the Civil War. For a time, I was even employed as a tour guide at Stonewall Jackson's house. So I do not make my comments from a position of ignorance.
I understand that the issue of secession was not new in 1860, and honorable men disagreed. But I have come to believe that the actions of the Southern states during that period amounted to rebellion. Obviously, many disagree with me. And my guess is that the two views will never be reconciled.
I continue sympathize with those in Wisconsin who are offended by someone who chooses to fly the flag of the Confederacy.