Southern Racism in the Military, Explained and Challenged

Brig. General Ty Seidule (ret.), in a forceful but humane narrative, challenges the myths and lies of the Confederate legacy―and explores why some of this country’s oldest wounds have never healed.  He writes about it in, "Robert E. Lee and Me - A Southerners Reckoning With The Myth of the Lost Cause."

Ty Seidule grew up revering Robert E. Lee. From his southern childhood to his service in the U.S. Army, every part of his life reinforced the Lost Cause myth: that Lee was the greatest man who ever lived, and that the Confederates were underdogs who lost the Civil War with honor. Now, as a retired brigadier general and Professor Emeritus of History at West Point, his view has radically changed. From a soldier, a scholar, and a southerner, Ty Seidule believes that American history demands a reckoning.

Ty talks to host Jim Fausone about the myth of Lee, slavery, and the South's portrayal of the fight for "states rights."  He explains that Lee chose treason to fight for slavery - not a love of Virginia. This history professor discusses how support for Lee and the southern cause crept into West Point.  Seidule explains you must look at the timing of southern memorials and base naming to understand the hidden messages. He advocates for changing those names that reflect support for slavery.  Once given direction by Congress, he believes the Army is ready to change names and remove memorials.