Reply #93: I apologize - you weren't being obtuse - you're being deliberately evasive.

[baldguy]

The fact is the national flag of the CSA and the battle flag of the Army of Northern Virginia both represent the same thing - the evil, racist legacy of the Confederacy. Refusing to recognize this is akin to arguing that there's a difference between Hitler's Luftwaffe and the Waffen Schutzstaffel. They might have had different rolls, but there is no meaningful difference between them.

The Confederate flag is a de facto symbol of the South - by the South's own collective choice. they've put it on their state flags, they display it in their govt buildings and display it in their homes. The fact that you deny that and pretend that it should make no difference is telling.

Aristus is correct - no community would tolerate the open display and honor to the flag of Nazi Germany or fascist Italy in America by any entity of the American govt. Few communities would allow such a display by private citizens either. Yet the Confederate flag is so honored, not only in the South but all over the country. It is invariably chosen by those who wish to display their racist, intolerant anti-American beliefs while hiding behind the canard of "Southern Heritage". In this case, 1865 isn't the date in question - it's 1956, and the South's response to the growing civil rights movement. The use & display of the Confederate flag is a direct affront to all Americans who believe in equality & justice.

So, ditch the fucking flag.