The American Civil War on eBay

Okay, folks, for a change of pace …

I want you to peruse eBay today and post a link to the item that either (a) you really desire or (b) stands out as some way as remarkable to you. The items must be American Civil War-related.

Have fun!

George Gordon Meade’s Birther Controversy

I am sure that by now most people are simply fed up with the continuing debate about the citizenship status of various presidents and presidential hopefuls. Given that there were Republicans who pushed for changing these requirements so that Arnold Schwarzenegger might consider a run for the White House while the status of Republican hopeful Ted Cruz is questioned by some people who want to engage in tit-for-tat, one has to consider the contingent nature of such outrage.

What’s Next for Tripp Lewis, Virginia Flagger?

As the Virginia Flaggers seek to recover from their recent humiliation (for example, Connie Chastain has increased her involvement by setting up a blog for the group), one name that hasn’t received much attention is Tripp Lewis. This amuses me, because Tripp loves publicity. For example, there is this film …

… which was shot by none other than Rob Walker, a featured player in the events of a few weeks ago.

May 17, 1863: The Battle of Big Black River

On May 17, 1863, Ulysses S. Grant’s Army of the Tennessee fell upon John C. Pemberton’s rear guard defending a bridge along the Big Black River. In the ensuing battle, Grant’s men took the bridge and began heading for Vicksburg. Spearheading the attack on the Union right was Michael Lawler’s brigade, which smashed through the Confederate left.

May 17, 1983: The Fourth Cup

On May 17, 1983, the New York Islanders defeated the Edmonton Oilers, 4-2, to win their fourth straight Stanley Cup.

May 16, 1982: The Third Cup

On May 16, 1982, the New York Islanders defeated the Vancouver Canucks, 3-1, to win their third Stanley Cup.

Monuments: Putting Them Up, Taking Them Down, Restoring Them

Yes, I know … we’ve heard enough about monuments over the past week, but that concerned a tall tale about preventing vandalism. Here’s three stories that should intrigue you:

Champion Hill, May 16, 1863

Some say that the decisive battle of the American Civil War was fought today 150 years ago along Baker’s Creek in Mississippi. In that battle, commonly known as the battle of Champion Hill, Ulysses S. Grant’s Army of the Tennessee decisively defeated John C. Pemberton’s Army of Mississippi and just missed rounding up most of it altogether.

Pemberton had moved out from Vicksburg in an effort to engage Grant’s army. He was not quite sure where it was. He entertained hopes of cutting Grant’s supply line and of joining with another Confederate force under Joseph E. Johnston to crush Grant … something rendered unlikely in the aftermath of Grant’s victory against Johnston at Jackson on May 14.

Turn Out The Lights …

… the party’s over.

Taking a cue from Dandy Don Meredith, I note that although it’s been quite a ride these past several days …. it’s time to bring it to an end.  We’ve enjoyed watching Susan Hathaway of the Virginia Flaggers circulate a fantastic story that she found herself forced to retract under pressure from people who highlighted the total lack of supporting evidence … and folks, let’s not forget the pivotal role of Tripp Lewis in all this, for without him, there would have been no Rob Walker to spin his tale. Many members of the Confederate Hysteria Movement, including Dave Tatum and Carl Roden, appear to have fallen for this ruse. At least Tatum showed rare integrity when he wrote: “I’m sorry that the Flaggers and I got duped with this tale”; Roden’s been silent, and, given what he usually says, perhaps that’s a wise decision. Other folks took their turns ranting and raving about this and that … and you know who they are.

It was truly the gift that kept on giving. Give credit where credit’s due: Hathaway could lead these lemmings off the edge of a cliff any time she so desires.

Is the story over? Not really. But it can be set aside.

I’m sure the shadow of this story will hang over Hathaway and other members of the CHM, and we’ll see whether anyone learns anything. It’s been entertaining, but it’s time to move on. Good night, take care, and drive home safely. See you tomorrow.

My thanks to the Richmond Police Department for its efforts in this matter. The authorities have had to waste their time dealing with Flagger nonsense before, as good old Tripp can tell you. Restore the honor, indeed.

When I Hear From Josephine “Southern” Bass …

… as I did here …

I’m reminded of this:

h/t to my wife Cheryl, who suggested this was an appropriate response.