|
|
||
Date published: 9/9/2007
KENNESAW, Ga.--Is the history of our great nation important to you? Union Gen. William T. Sherman said of Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, "After all, I think Forrest as the most remarkable man our 'Civil War' produced on either side." This came from a man who was once a foe of Forrest on the field of battle. Why do some folks attack America's heritage? Several years ago, attempts were made to change the name of Forrest Park in Memphis, Tenn. Now, there are people trying to change the name of Nathan Bedford Forrest High School in Jacksonville, Fla. But was Forrest an early advocate for civil rights? Forrest's speech during a meeting of the "Jubilee of Pole Bearers" is a story that needs to be told. He was the first white man invited by this group, which was a forerunner of today's civil rights groups. A reporter Miss Lou Lewis, daughter of a Pole Bearer member, was introduced to Forrest, and she presented the former general a bouquet of flowers as a token of reconciliation, peace, and good will. On July 5, 1875, Nathan Bedford Forrest delivered this speech: "Ladies and gentlemen, "I came here with the jeers of some white people, who think that I am doing wrong. I believe I can exert some influence, and do much to assist the people in strengthening fraternal relations, and shall do all in my power to elevate every man, to depress none. [Applause.] "I want to elevate you to take positions in law offices, in stores, on farms, and wherever you are capable of going. I have not said anything about politics today. I don't propose to say anything about politics. You have a right to elect whom you please; vote for the man you think best, and I think, when that is done, you and I are free men.
Thank you for posting Mr. Johnsons comments. General Forest is truly an American Hero, and an American icon.
Gen. Forrest so often is portrayed as such a rabble rouser,
I appreciate Mr.Johnsons article letting everyone know the real truth about Gen Forrest. Thank you for printing it for us all to be able to read and learn more about our history.
|
|
||||||||||||||
