Jantzen64
Sergeant
- Joined
- Aug 10, 2019
As I continue to explore the issue of National Reconciliation, I keep coming back to the notion that reconciliation in personal relations usually involves expressions of regret or apologies for causing offense/harm to the other. Put bluntly, it's tough to resume "normal relations" with someone until/unless you hear them say "I'm sorry." Post reconstruction, were there any thought leaders from either side that tried to reach out to the other side and express regret for what happened? For example, somebody from the North saying they shouldn't have resorted to "coercion" - a sort of post-war version of "let the erring sisters go . . . . "? Or, somebody from the South saying that they should have kept faith with the democratic system and abided by the results of the election? Not trying to limit it to those examples, but looking for any examples of expressions of contrition to the other side.
I always thought that one of the more remarkable aspects of Lincoln's Second Inaugural was that even on the cusp of complete victory, he used language which - while not apologetic per se - did seem to assume some responsibility on behalf of both sides for the war.
Can anyone point me to any efforts by either side to build on that linguistic bridge building?
I always thought that one of the more remarkable aspects of Lincoln's Second Inaugural was that even on the cusp of complete victory, he used language which - while not apologetic per se - did seem to assume some responsibility on behalf of both sides for the war.
Can anyone point me to any efforts by either side to build on that linguistic bridge building?
Bringing the