Supporting states’ rights

Some contend the Civil War was only about slavery. That is simplistic and unreasonable. It was partially about slavery. A person’s ability to own another ended with the war. That was the good result.

The war was also about states’ rights and the U.S. Constitution. The authority of the federal government is limited to specific powers and all others are reserved for the states. A bad result of the war was the reduced ability of states to govern themselves. Since then, states’ rights have constantly been eroded by an out-of-control federal government.

The flag being discussed was not the official flag of the Confederate states. It was used in battle so those fighting could tell friend from enemy. Many people fought under that flag, both black and white. Some for slavery and some for states’ rights. None were traitors any more than those who fought with George Washington.

It is disappointing that two such important issues were decided by an event where only one could prevail. The best result would have been for both to be on the winning side. I am glad slavery ended, and I will fly my Confederate battle flag in support of states’ rights.

Chan Bailey

Colbert