It doesn't matter. The CBF as a symbol of opposition to civil rights legislation, a la the KKK, American Nazi Party, et al, or the CBF as a symbol of opposition to big government -- both are postwar inventions.

The CBF, as you know, was the canton of the National flag of the Confederate States of America, just as the Union Jack is the canton of the National flag of the United States. As the canton of the national flag, the CBF was seen as the symbol of a particular nation which existed at a particular time and place in history. Confederate soldiers fought under the flag that represented their country, not under a political prop that flew in protest of a certain theory of government.

It was only long after the war that certain groups began using the flag as a prop. Because we Southerners stood by and let them claim the CBF as a tool of protest, it has become stained with shame, contempt and derision. Everytime some clown waves that sacred banner, hoping for -- expecting -- a visceral response, the stain on that noble banner deepens.

They have the legal right to use the CBF, but I will never waver in condemning them for it. Shame on them, and shame on those who stand by and let it happen. And God bless those who wrote in protest of the latest misuse of the flag.

And with that, I'll climb down off my high horse.