The problem is Kevin, there is much about that war that isn't taught or even general knowledge because of the lack of interest in showing both views. The fact is the victor writes the textbooks. That's just how it is. Do you think the Japanese children get our students version of WWII?
No, you are not the only one who sees those things you mention but there's more to it than that.

I agree, the South was not prepared to go to war when it did. As I see it, South Carolina wanted to push the issue and was a bit resentful when other states wanted to join in their 'thunder'.

There are two sides to Jeff Davis. We've talked about that here before. He was as good at giving speeches as old Abe but he also tried to micromanage an Army he needed to leave alone to do their business. He also should have not given so many cronies appointments in the field where they were not as qualified as others.

The ONLY time I have been disappointed with Lee was when he did not listen to Longstreet.

The reason we talk about the South's reasons for wanting to leave the Union are because they do not talk about them in the textbooks. There were many things going on at that time. There's some corrolation to things today if one wants to look at it but that's for another board.

As far as it being slanted toward the Southern side, well, this is one place we can talk and NOT be censored or expected to aplolgize for our Ancestors. We are proud of them for doing something instead of sitting around griping. They are a part of American History, no matter who was wrong or right. They gave their lives and limbs and lived in intolerable conditions for something. We may not fully understand why or what that something was for each individual but I can promise you it wasn't all because of slavery. When I started on this board, it was to learn of one ancestor. I had to figure out where he was and why he was captured. I was just being nosey. Not only did I get some expert help, I've listened and learned so much more that I cannot stop. This is too vast a subject to be put in one book, on one board, have one opinion. It is what it is. We accept that. What we do NOT accept is the erasure of the facts and the chance to celebrate our heritage as much as any other group. If you think about it, we are unique. We are the ones who are keeping the memory alive. Every man, woman or child who picks up a book or researches an ancestor is a keeper of the flame. If we don't, the fire will go out and too many would love to see it do just that. We cannot let it.

Pam

PS: The real problem I have with Grant and Sherman is they were on the wrong side.