Confederate Flag: Controversial Symbol of the South
#3 in Patriotic Symbols of America Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
The issue of slavery had divided the nation for decades, but problems came to a head after the election of Abraham Lincoln as president in 1860. Fearing that Lincoln would attempt to abolish slavery, the legislatures of 11 southern states voted to withdraw from the United States and create a new nation, the Confederate States of America. This resulted in four bloody years of Civil War in which more than 600,000 Americans were killed. The Confederacy adopted several flags between 1861 and 1865; the best known today is the battle flag, which featured a blue saltire cross on a red background. To some people, the Confederate flag is a proud symbol of Southern heritage and bravery. Others, however, view the Confederate flag as a symbol that represents the enslavement and oppression of African Americans. As a result, the Confederate flag is among the most controversial of American symbols. Discusses the symbolic meaning and history of the various forms of the Confederate flag used during the Civil War, as well as controversies surrounding modern-day display and use of this emblem.
Discussion points
What feelings or thoughts do you have when you see the Confederate flag in the book?
Why do you think the Confederate flag is considered a controversial symbol by many people?
How can symbols like flags affect the way people think about history?
Can you think of other symbols that might mean different things to different people?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the Confederate flag to create a comfortable space for open dialogue.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts without judgment, reinforcing that all perspectives are valid in a discussion.
Use examples from current events or history to illustrate how symbols can have different meanings based on personal experiences or societal context.
Guide the conversation towards the importance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives in society.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Historical Contexts
Explanation: The book explores the origins and historical usage of the Confederate flag, helping children understand the complexities of historical symbols.
Real-World Application: This lesson enables children to critically analyze and question the significance of various symbols and traditions in contemporary society.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Respect for Diverse Perspectives
Explanation: Through narratives and discussions around differing viewpoints on the Confederate flag, this book encourages children to consider multiple perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to engage respectfully in conversations, considering different cultural and personal backgrounds in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Reasoning
Explanation: The book prompts readers to think critically about the representation and implications of historical symbols like the Confederate flag.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied when children encounter other complex social issues, helping them to form reasoned opinions based on thoughtful analysis.
Example Lesson: Discussing Sensitive Topics
Explanation: By addressing a controversial subject, the book guides children on how to approach sensitive topics thoughtfully.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thoughtful dialogue, which they can use to navigate sensitive conversations at school or home.