General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Why is it we forced "de-nazification" on Germany but not the equivalent on Confederates? [View all]merrily
(45,251 posts)Last edited Mon Jun 29, 2015, 03:56 AM - Edit history (1)
become one nation again, even though slaves had been freed. Healing was deemed a priority. Even Lee was to be treated respectfully as he surrendered.
Perhaps, in hindsight, a different balance could have been struck, including outlawing the symbols of sedition. However, Lincoln did what he thought necessary and in the best interests of the union.
Thank you to Yupster for pointing out an error this post originally contained about debts.
The Fourteenth Amendment voided certain debts. It says, in part:
Section 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.