This oversimplification of the events of that time has been used by those more interested in political correctness than history to obscure the true nature of the events of 1861-1865. The same right that Thomas Jefferson stated was the right of all people who wish to change their form of government when they believe the existing government has become destructive of their liberties. The states of the South that left the Federal Union and formed the Confederate States of America did so in order to preserve the principles of ordered liberty in a Republic of Republics, as the Constitution of the United States had intended. The truth is that the South knew the exact intent of the Constitution and saw it being subverted by northern politicians more interested in the consolidation of power than the liberty of the people. As for the issue of slavery - it existed on both sides of the border for the duration of the war.
Further research reveals that many thousands of blacks fought for the South.
Because they wished to protect their homes and families from an invader whose conduct would today cause charges of war crimes to be brought against the leaders of the army and the government that commanded it. Even the assertion that the North fought to preserve theUnion is readily shown to be false. Before the war, the Union was grounded upon the only legitimate basis of government - the consent of the governed. There was none, and the United States government therefore proved by its own actions that it was not the legitimate government of the Southern nation. If those opposed to the monument are truly interested in diversity of opinion, as most liberals claim, then they should welcome the opportunity to erect a monument to the men and open an honest debate about our history.