The sacred obligation to the Union soldiers must not - will not be forgotten nor neglected.... But those who fought against the Nation cannot and do not look to it for relief.... Confederate soldiers and their descendants are to share with us and our descendants the destiny of America. Whatever, therefore, we their fellow citizens can do to remove burdens from their shoulders and to brighten their lives is surely in the pathway of humanity and patriotism.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Hayes argues that while Confederate soldiers cannot rely on the nation for aid, their descendants should share in America's future. He believes helping them is both a humanitarian and patriotic duty.
- In plain terms
- We should help former enemies and their families build a better future together.
- What can you take from it?
- Forgiveness and shared progress benefit the whole nation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we balance justice with mercy?
- What does patriotism require in divided times?
Another view
It assumes all descendants want reconciliation, which may not always be true.
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