Funny, I never even considered that Texas had or has a distinct and individual right to secede from the United States. It was a Constitutional right of all the States. Mr. Ball's opinion that secession lead to the War has been argued many places, including here. I see no attempt by him to offer evidence for his assertion.

http://www.lsjunction.com/docs/secesson.htm

Here is the Ordinance of Secession, in case anyone is interested in reading the causes stated by Texas leaders of that time. The men who actually lived and risked everything. The last signature is S.A. Willson who was a 25 year district judge from Woodville. During the War, he was captain of the 1st Texas Infantry, Texas Brigade. After the War he was judge, then removed during Reconstruction, then district judge again, then elected to Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. There are many honorable, educated signers who served their state and their country. I chose Judge Willson because he was my gg-uncle.

When someone offers facts that may suport an opposing arguement, legal or moral, for secession then that is fine with me. When someone (e.g. Mr. Ball) tosses weak opinions that denigrate my ancestors it annoys me.

Dennis, I hope you know that I am not referring to you.