Examining the Confederate Battle Flag as a “Second American Flag”

by | Apr 23, 2024 | History

In his book, The Confederate Battle Flag, John Coski claims that it makes sense to think of the
Confederate battleflag as a “Second American Flag.” Do you agree with that argument? Why or
why not? Use specific historical events and trends to illustrate your points. Hint: Even if you do
not agree with Coski’s argument, you must show that you understand it

Discussion, John M. Coski, The Confederate Battle Flag: America’s Most Embattled Emblem
During the Civil War, why did some white southerners begin to object to the original “Stars and Bars,” leading
to the adoption of what most people today call the “Confederate flag?”
What did Confederate veteran Carlton McCarthy say the battle flag symbolized, or didn’t symbolize? What did
it mean to him? Does Coski fully accept that answer?
Was there ever a time when the battle flag was separate from the Confederate “Cause” itself? The “Cause”
What was it? – slavery?; constitutional liberty? something else?
What did southerners of the Civil War era say the war was about? (This may not have a one-word answer!)
What did they think they were fighting for? Could these two questions have different answers?????
When southerners displayed the battle flag in the immediate postwar period, what were they doing? Did they
think they were threatening the union? Were they trying to reimpose slavery?
Maintain white supremacy? Show that they had not forgotten their comrades and loved ones?
During Reconstruction, if northerners objected to the Confederate flag, why did they object? Did they see it as a
symbol of treason, or of racism?
How was the flag used towards the end of Reconstruction and in the 1880s, up until World War II?
Did the UCV and UDC approve?
What was the northern response to the flag in this time period (end of Reconstruction through WWII)?
Why did southern servicemen display the Confederate flag during World War II?
Coski says that after World War II, the flag transformed from a symbol of the status quo to a symbol of protest.
What does he mean by that? How was it a symbol of the status quo before?
If Confederate veterans could come back to life and observe the debates we have today on the Confederate flag,
what would they find strange or puzzling?
Ch. 12 – What does Coski say was common about the outcome in all 4 statewide Confederate flag debates
(South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi)?
Why does Coski call the Confederate flag the “Second American Flag?” Is he right?
Try to list all the meanings the flag has had: How many of those messages/meanings are “American;”
how many of them are only “southern,” but not “American?”
What solutions does Coski propose? Do they seem reasonable to you?

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Sample Answer

 

 

Examining the Confederate Battle Flag as a “Second American Flag”

Introduction

In John Coski’s book, The Confederate Battle Flag: America’s Most Embattled Emblem, he presents the argument that the Confederate battle flag can be considered a “Second American Flag.” This assertion raises questions about the historical significance and varied interpretations of the flag throughout different periods in American history. This essay will analyze Coski’s argument, exploring specific historical events and trends to evaluate whether the Confederate battle flag truly holds the status of a “Second American Flag.”

Understanding Coski’s Argument

Coski’s argument hinges on the evolution of the Confederate battle flag as a symbol that transcends its Confederate origins to become intertwined with American identity. He delves into the complexities of how the flag was perceived by different groups over time, highlighting its shifting meanings and interpretations.

Historical Context and Trends

1. Civil War Era: During the Civil War, the adoption of the Confederate battle flag stemmed from objections to the original “Stars and Bars” among some white southerners. This shift represented a divergence in symbolism and allegiance.

2. Confederate Cause: The Confederate battle flag was closely associated with the “Cause,” a complex blend of ideals ranging from states’ rights to slavery. The flag symbolized different things to different individuals, including notions of constitutional liberty and heritage.

3. Post-Civil War Period: In the immediate postwar period, displaying the battle flag was a multifaceted gesture. It served as a tribute to fallen comrades, a statement of defiance against perceived threats to southern identity, and a means of preserving white supremacy.

4. Reconstruction Era: Northerners objected to the Confederate flag during Reconstruction, viewing it as a symbol of treason and racism. The flag’s usage towards the end of Reconstruction and into the 1880s reflected ongoing societal tensions and differing interpretations of its meaning.

5. World War II and Beyond: Southern servicemen displayed the Confederate flag during World War II, reflecting a deep connection to their heritage. Coski suggests that post-World War II, the flag transformed from a symbol of the status quo to a symbol of protest against societal changes.

Evaluation of Coski’s Argument

Coski’s characterization of the Confederate battle flag as the “Second American Flag” raises thought-provoking questions about national identity, heritage, and memory. While some may find merit in this perspective, others may challenge it based on the flag’s divisive historical associations with slavery, secession, and resistance to civil rights advancements.

Conclusion

As we navigate discussions surrounding the Confederate battle flag, it is essential to engage with diverse viewpoints and historical contexts to understand its complex legacy. Whether one aligns with Coski’s argument or not, exploring the flag’s multifaceted meanings throughout American history enriches our understanding of how symbols can shape collective memory and identity. The ongoing debates and interpretations surrounding the Confederate battle flag underscore its enduring significance as a potent emblem of both unity and division in American society.

 

 

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