I do not have a single male relative who served in Union Blue. Many, many served in the Grey. Two of them entered politics after the war, one of them a Member of Congress and Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee. The other State Governor and United States Senator. Both lost their fortunes during the war, but both have written that the war was tragic and that the preservation of the Union was a good thing.
Another, a 3d generation descendant of President Thomas Jefferson's family was killed in action in 1863. His family were all loyal to the Lost Cause, but firmly supported the decision ratified by the blood of so many Americans.
I know that these people would not support your view. They learned many bitter lessons and they worked to heal the nation, not divide it in the years following. Let Obama be the America hater, he plays that role so well.
I find it odd you feel compelled to speak for all your relatives, who were evidently Confederates.
“The Lost Cause,” “In Grey,” “Ratified by the blood...”
All of this is very saccharine Victor’s language but I strongly suspect you misunderstand the reasons for secession and the secession itself, as well as the level of understanding men who might well be brighter than you had of their situation, of the state of the Union, and of their cause.
Finally to refer to Confederate sympathizers as ‘un-American’ marks you as, perhaps someone who would do well to read any number of excellent pieces on the subject of the Constitution, State’s rights, powers of the Federal government, etc., all of which changed drastically and permanently after Appomatox.
SPOT ON! There were many, MANY, southern military that said the very same thing.
My grt gramps gave acreage to southern soldiers that came up north to find work after they were pardoned at Vicksburg. They stayed and prospered.
Joe Johnston went to Shermans funeral and died a few days later. Lee said that in all history, he could not find a general like that of Grant. And that from Lee. These four men, held the union together after it was over since there were those in the administration, after Lincoln was killed, who wanted blood. I believe Grant would have instigated a coup if they persisted. He said it was over, end of story.
Excellent commentary and thanks.