Tuesday, April 20, 2010
I found it interesting to learn about the different perspectives that the soldiers had about the purposes of the Civil War. On pg. 188 of Killer Angels, Chamberlain and Kilrain are pondering the human value of a black man and whether or not he has a "divine spark." Basically, Kilrain's opinion was that a man's value should be determined by what he makes of himself, not by what circumstances he happens to be born into. Respect is a thing to be earned, regardless of race. The south, on the other hand, felt that they were fighting to preserve a way of life, which happened to include a society of class distinctions. There were several references in the book where Lee put the situation in the hands of God. Both sides really felt like they were fighting for the "right" cause. It's too bad they had to kill each other to settle the matter.
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I have come to the conclusion that it had to start somewhere. I mistakenly thought that there were thousands of people who believed the black man to be an equal and so they were willing to fight for them. Through our readings I found this was not the case. The majority who would fight "for them" weren't fighting for them, they were fighting for the union. The small group who were fighting for them didn't consider them equal. But then I think, It all had to start somewhere.
ReplyDeleteGreat subject, thanks Perry. I too had believed that the North was fighting for the black man. I guess that's the way it's been portrayed by those who taught us about the Civil War. I am glad to learn more about the subject, but also sad to think that the North wasn't fighting to free the blacks from slavery because all mankind are equal. What a horrible position those who contributed to slavery put this country in. I sure am having to do a lot of thinking and am learning tons. I am so greatful to be apart of this seminar.
ReplyDeleteDitto on the grateful part. I feel so blessed to be a part of it.
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