Civil War reenactments grow in popularity in wake of 2020 protests l ABCNL

ABC News’ Steve Osunsami examines the debate over Civil War reenactments in the South, which have drawn more attendees in the wake of the removal of statues and monuments.
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#civilwar #reenactments #monuments #south #2020protests

[@thunderbeard1617]

As a civil war reenactor this was just a blatant hit piece. Reenactments are not the celebrations of the events that happened, let alone slavery! It's just like the name implies we are reenacting the events that happened as a form of visual history so people can (in a sense) see the history play out. In short reenacting is to show people what the battles were like and how life was like back then. NOT a celebration of the time period or the views these men had.

[@BoatyPirate69]

reenactor here. so true!

[@michaelcoder9119]

It is a celebration of the good of that time. But not politically.

[@thunderbeard1617]

@@michaelcoder9119 Nothing is good about war. If we do our jobs well people should walk away with the understanding that it was hell.

[@michaelcoder9119]

@@thunderbeard1617 I'm referring to history specifically. Not War.

[@rc59191]

I know right it's ridiculous I'm s Son's of Union Veterans member and I'm tired of hate reenactors get especially the Confederate one's. I knew once they started tearing down statues and changing flag's they were gonna go after our history and living historians next.

[@MasonsTurtle]

2:02. Yes, history needs to be remembered. Stop banning books at schools.

[@jutsu1]

They are only banning books used to groom children. And CRT is not history.

[@griffinclary61]

what other group of people banned and burned books or wait the nazis

[@the_based_and_trad_protestant]

@@griffinclary61 what other group tore down monuments from their countries history oh wait also the nazis

[@josh05683]

@@the_based_and_trad_protestant You need to do more research. The Nazis targeted political monuments for their metal. They were melted down for the war effort. Historical or pieces of art were left alone. Plus, the monuments that are being torn down we’re celebrating individuals who fought for a horrible cause. You can say it wasn’t over slavery, but the articles of succession say different. All the points that are brought up, like state rights, wrap back around to slavery. The South claimed the federal policies would sabotage their economy, well what was the foundation the supported their economy? Slaves. The monuments being torn down were intentionally erected during the Jim Crow era to preserve the lost cause mindset and intimidate black individuals.

[@rc59191]

Dude my cousin is a teacher and she almost got fired for having her class read perks of being a wallflower. There is nothing wrong with that book meanwhile we read Huck Finn which has the N word and Shakespeare which is full of innuendos.

[@troutwarrior6735]

My uncle was a Union reenactor, I remember he took me to a "battle" once when I was visiting him on the east coast. It was an absolute blast. I have a great great something grandfather who was a union officer, and I thought it was an awesome way to honor his memory and step into his shoes. Anyways, my uncle was great friends with some of the rebel reenactors in that town. There was no political anomosity between any of them, far from it! They all respected each other's beliefs, and they all knew a ton about history. They recognized that slavery was wrong, and that it was good that the North won. Above it all though, they were a bunch of well in formed, awesome guys with a tremendous love and respect for history. It was one of the more tolerant political atmospheres I can remember ever being in. My point is, reenactment isn't a celebration of the confederacy (or at least it shouldn't be). I think a lot of our problems today would be solved if we were more open and honest with our discussions of the past.

[@walterwilliams2246]

The union winning the war was good? You know the war was about State Rights, right? That the federal government had no place to outlaw slavery, that was a STATE issue. My ancestors knew what would come next when you give the federal government charge over states. Now we have the FBI, the DOJ, the federal gun laws, federal drug laws, federal this, federal that. You aren’t free. You’re a slave to the FEDERAL government. Hope you enjoy the ride! Because they’re taking us all straight to hell

[@MeadeFatLoss]

It had nothing to do with slavery.

[@ZackLongdick]

Is there any money in reenactment?

[@jacobsnewadventures]

I don’t appreciate the reporters tone of voice and how he’s making them look racist…that’s wrong

[@meridian1928]

It's almost as if they had a preconceived notion going in and weren't interested in really speaking to people.

[@jacobsnewadventures]

@@meridian1928 it just seemed very biased and that’s sad

[@henryfurgason8626]

It's just an echo chamber. It shows close mindedness on the part of the reporters.

[@kennethbak1324]

I agree, who says the media is not biased, LOL 20 Years ago the reporter would have reported the story from a neutral point of view.

[@jameslongstreet9259]

Yeah like "..They don't do this in Germany.." Biased statement...

[@BL-no7jp]

I have a cousin who is a re-enactors of our confederate Captain ancestor from Ky. My family who fought were mostly Union officers or soldiers. My cousin re-enacts for historical purposes like most re-enactors. My father in law re-enacted his Union Captain officer grandfather. It’s like a hobby for most participants. This has been an ongoing tradition in my neck of the woods since the early 80’s. Their re-enactment has nothing to do with politics as much as it has to do with history.

[@jamalwilburn228]

Can I re-enact as a slave?

[@soccerman9307]

@@jamalwilburn228 sure I got some chores need doing

[@Defender78]

And just like any mountain biking club, martial arts studio, or a weekend hiking group, reenacting is a very fun thing to do and and it brings people together to collaborate, mix notes, and have a great time

[@JD1976]

Oh yeah. I guess that means its ok since you claim union. I'm a die hard reenactor i reenact as union and confederate. I prefer confederate now. Now i know why after the war sherman and other union soldiers regretted the side they chose.

[@BL-no7jp]

@@JD1976 I have family on both sides and they re-enact on both sides. My husband and I had ancestors who were captains on both sides. I had ancestors from Ky who fought both sides. Their fathers fought for the American Revolution, although their ancestors were who came here in the 17th century were English noblemen or royals. By 1775, most of my ancestors on this land were mixed with other nationalities and race west of Lee Co Va, past the Cumberland Gap.

[@catmonarchist8920]

I know people who re-enacted the English civil war for decades on the monarchist side. They don't support going back to the pre-1689 British constitution where the monarchy had far more power. I know Americans re-enact the war of independence without desiring to install the Queen as head of state.

[@EgoEroTergum]

Don't worry cousin, give it a few years and some Caesar-type will come along and we'll end up with a homegrown king or queen of our own. Democracy doesn't seem very popular among the youngin's.😝

[@davidparker2749]

@@EgoEroTergum it’ll never happen, despite all the stuff happening, the constitution can’t be broken.

[@walterwilliams2246]

@@davidparker2749 the constitution is broke, have you read it? Have you not seen how our federal government completely usurped states rights to govern themselves?

[@thecivilwarguy3674]

As part of the Civil War community we are just trying to honnor our history and heritage. We do not celebrate slavery, we are a super kind and loving and friendly community North and South

[@stevensanchez2951]

A superkind community?, Whats the attitude towards people of other religions

[@rc59191]

@@stevensanchez2951 I've been reenacting for s few years and am a Son's of Union Veterans member and religion has never been brought up nobody cares.

[@stevensanchez2951]

@@rc59191 so what your saying is?

[@rc59191]

@@stevensanchez2951 nobody cares what religion you are in the community.

[@stevensanchez2951]

@@rc59191 So the south doesn't care if someone, man, woman, white, black Asian, middle eastern is Catholic 🇻🇦 Muslim ☪️ Jew 🕎 Buddhist Pagan The South, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Southerners welcome them?

[@kevlarburrito6693]

They most definitely do World War 2 reenactments all over Europe... Hell they do English Civil War reenactments...

[@youtubemodsaresnowflakelef7692]

Without these "controversial" reenactors there wouldn't have been movies like "Gettysburg", "Glory", et cetera. who donated their free time for often little more than some water and sandwiches (at best money to cover the powder and shot they used).

[@josephacamo2407]

You had me at sandwiches

[@allenperkins2775]

LOL! They may issue powder but not shot . We don't actually kill each other .

[@vssprc]

My wife did a PhD in adult reenactment (medieval reenactors) & learning in another country. The benefits far outweigh the negatives with the participants learning a great deal about themselves & others. And the horrors of medieval times make the 1800s look meek & mild by comparison! Think about it, these people are reenacting & celebrating the greatest physical defeat the institution of slavery has ever suffered! And gallantry does not mean the cause someone is fighting for is just

[@bigraviolees]

They're idiots playing soldier and belittling slavery

[@derekdmr762]

Well put, learn history or repeat it

[@silo18]

Are they celebrating the defeat? If so that gives me a difference perspective. It looked like they were celebrating the confederacy.

[@bigraviolees]

@@derekdmr762 enactments are a joke. A whitewash if history. Belittling slavery war and death with a corn dog and cotton candy

[@derekdmr762]

@@bigraviolees why are you tagging me? I said learn history or repeat it. Take care!

[@katiebartolone6793]

I'm a civil war reenactor and I'm not racist those people that think we are we are not racist

[@Combateffective]

I've been to several reenactments in my life and have done living history (interpretive programs) in the past. One of the things that I think most people don't understand about the people who spend their time and money of these and other historical events, is that at the heart of our interest is simply a love and respect for history. We come from every kind of walk of life and have as diverse of beliefs and opinions about our history, and even our political beliefs. My best friend from my former living history group was an atheist who was as progressive of a Liberal Democrat as I am a Christian Republican. In the same group was moderates, libertarians, and every other form of belief. ... We just loved getting together and talking and telling history. No subject was off the table. And we openly talked about slavery, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights movement. Not one person was sad the North won, and the majority of us were all born in the South.

[@NateOnThe-Radio]

I remember watching some of these myself while my brother and my dad took part of the reenactment… I’m pretty sure it took place somewhere in southern Minnesota, right off of Highway 75

[@scottmorley3672]

Please these people are not better than fireman who come back at night and set fires to put out

[@scottmorley3672]

Was that Gomer Pyle?

[@scottmorley3672]

Great teaching your kids how to fight with archaic weapons for a lost cause

[@scottmorley3672]

"Keeping history alive" By pretending to kill people

[@themeanhornet1070]

At least they are not burning down stores and businesses.

[@josh05683]

The others invaded the capital though…

[@mando8288]

@@josh05683 but any day before that or now they wouldn’t be able to get in the capital so easy Hmm 🤔 people don’t think they believe whatever their told

[@josh05683]

@@mando8288 What are you on about?

[@KR811]

They just burn crosses and black homes

[@ssww3]

​@@josh05683othey didn't burn it down like blm woukd of

[@b17bass59]

This reporter definitely is offended. Lol! Keep history alive so we don’t repeat it.

[@kenneththompson8560]

There are no statues of hitler…

[@scooternc95]

​@@kenneththompson8560you realize this video is about reenacting, not statues, right?

[@TunnelRatoscarmike]

8:52 … yes there are no statues of Hitler in Germany. However, there is a monument in just about every village/town/city honoring veterans of the local area in both WWI and WWII. European reenactors are Just as passionate about telling history through the eyes of a soldier as Civil War reenactors are.

[@kenneththompson8560]

Then why do we celebrate the confederates

[@timothyjohnson4890]

It seems like the reporter forgets that the Civil War ended slavery.

[@TheNorthernGoon]

“He was out in the open, waving his hat, pointing to a grove of trees, saying… We larp at dawn boys

[@newenglandpatriot4069]

Yee yee, cuzin

[@corneliusmakin-bird7540]

They tried to make reenactors look stupid. The funny thing is, when you go to the events, you meet some of the most knowledgable people on the subject of the civil war or whatever other war they are reenacting.

[@KR811]

Knowledgeable in Lost Cause propaganda 🤡

[@PoshingtonSpark]

@@KR811 its okay man, I hope you feel better about life.

[@scooternc95]

​@@KR811how many reenactors have you spoken to? How many reenactments have you been to and listened to what is said?

[@scooternc95]

​@SecondPlaceSince1865 how many reenactments have you been to? Many reenactments have discussions about slavery.

[@MichaelWilliams-lc2nw]

I wasn’t going to comment on here but now after seeing this video I am… I am both a confederate and union reenactor, all we are doing is preserving history. What people REFUSE to believe in this country is if any nation forgets its past they are doomed to repeat it. How can these people even begin to understand something that happened over 160 years ago? It was a different time and place… You’re judging this hobby from a modern political perspective, not of history. Yes we are being judged and attacked for reasons that are simply not true…. We are not white supremacist, nor do we condone slavery…. Never did!!! After lee surrendered in 1865 all confederate soldiers became veterans… So when you take down a monument in there memory for fighting for what they thought was right, your taking down a monument of a veteran… plain and simple…. It’s the KKK and white supremacist who have twisted history and made it into something it really never was…. Most southern soldiers couldn’t afford slaves, much less shoes during the civil war. Am I condoning slavery NO IM NOT…. But twisting the truth to satisfy an agenda to promote off of what has happened recently in this country to that of 160 years ago is not only wrong but a distortion of the truth… plain and simple…. That is not what reenacting is….

[@haydnburrell9206]

That’s probably the worst take I have ever herd about reenacting.

[@ThatDrummerFrank]

people have been re-enacting the civil war for a lot longer than just since last year. even if last years protests brought a bigger audience to these re-enactments, that doesn’t mean that it’s because they want to celebrate racism. could just as easily mean that the protests sparked a historical interest among people that wasn’t there before. because, as we know, there a lots of people who aren’t super well educated about history, right?

[@jonathanstaddon8080]

the real reason is most of our reenactments where cancelled because of the virus so of course there is a greater interest in the events.

[@christianbalos8609]

Man this is biased! I just got my reenactment gear. Im hispanic and Im in the confederate side. I dont care about the whole race stuff its just cool! Like the whole fighting period imo

[@EgoEroTergum]

Rock on dude! Give em Dixie and cannister fire!

[@AliSakurai]

It's not shocking and insensitive. It's history that we need to constantly be reminded of so we won't repeat it!

[@widowmaker6555]

Semper Fidelis 🇺🇸🙏🇺🇸

[@osazuwaogbeide1540]

sadly it still happening and it getting worse

[@widowmaker6555]

@@osazuwaogbeide1540 you must live in Africa

[@osazuwaogbeide1540]

@@widowmaker6555 and so what you think that hurt my feelings.Ghana more peaceful then america

[@osazuwaogbeide1540]

@@widowmaker6555 america collapsing

[@gerrywiesner6979]

Two words for our kind fellas over at ABC, from Australia, with love; grow up.

[@observantservant2135]

Media just doesn't want anyone to find enjoyment in anything hands on these days.

[@xcalibrx1653]

As a reenactor, reenacting is just larping. Thats it, we dont have any political motives other than it looks cool. I know so many people in the reenacting community with a wide array of beliefs that what binds us together is our interest in portraying the past.

[@JohnStripedfur]

Makes me wonder how people feel on re-enactors of other wars. IE: Revolutionary War, War of 1812, etc.

[@MiniM69]

Don’t think they were fighting to keep people enslaved because of their race

[@jutsu1]

People are stupid and sensitive.

[@Iris-hx6ox]

@@jutsu1 People are stupid and insensitive as well.

[@griffinclary61]

the don't care even thou those war didn't fight for the freedom of blacks

[@ChrisStavros]

@@MiniM69 European and pseudo-European (North America colonized by Europeans) wars were generally fought for political influence rather than slaves, but basically every other conflict between human beings everywhere in the world involved enslaving the losing side, with very limited exceptions.

[@chrisbammer8679]

I always wanted to participate in one of these reeinactments

[@mikebryant8507]

Shockingly

[@chrisbammer8679]

@@mikebryant8507 You're just jealous

[@mikebryant8507]

@@chrisbammer8679 I’m not a racist hillbilly that’s why

[@MG-qp5hz]

@@mikebryant8507 nah your drone

[@Defender78]

I'd join a Civil War reeanctment organization but i'm such a ham that every time I'd be "killed" i would make such a spectacle by tumbling over, rolling on the ground, going "aagGGH!" that i'd be asked to not come back

[@Nazgrok]

It's hilarious how slanted this "journalism" is, but all the people at the event are super candid and friendly 🤣 😂

[@misteroriginal]

Hilarious or sad? Pathetic? Disgusting?

[@LipeBrickStudios]

Civil war reenactments are not a celebration, it's a reminder of the past, of what we were once like and what we fought for, we cannot simply just forget it because everybody is so offended.

[@Hi-lb8cq]

Civil war reenacting pays tribute to the men who lost their lives fighting that war...saying reenacting is celebrating slavery is just not true..its paying tribute to the soldiers who gave their lives during the civil war so ppl dont forgot history

[@jamesluther3506]

I lost family in the civil war and will never forget them.

[@gl241]

No one celebrates the losing side. The south lost, just remember people.

[@chrisbammer8679]

The Alamo disagrees The battle of Camaron Etc. Lots of people like to celebrate the underdogs. Just not you.

[@Ellwood76]

@@chrisbammer8679 lots of people celebrate traitors is all i read

[@chrisbammer8679]

@@Ellwood76 It's OK you don't need to be ashamed, plenty of those with mental disabilities have problems reading well, just go slow and remember to sound it out

[@videoettaceo8900]

@@chrisbammer8679 you mean like your heros magat traitor greene and the proud boys 😂🤣

[@meridian1928]

...is anyone claiming otherwise?

[@matthewstrong1114]

I live in Illinois and I remember goin to these as a kid. Don’t remember anything racist about it. Thought it was really cool.

[@edgarluismartinez8840]

You still reenact? Or just a viewer?

[@matthewstrong1114]

@@edgarluismartinez8840 Just a viewer.

[@vssprc]

The reporter could have done a little less of telling us HIS opinion & more of showing us what happens at these events (ie more reporting)

[@blackout07blue]

You tell’em, goofy.

[@healingv1sion]

Its larp not hard to understand

[@braedenfurman9434]

@@healingv1sion that's the point, to show what I was like, you aren't insulting us

[@hangten1904]

​@@healingv1sion Now to think of it. People are crying that larping civil war reenactments is racist.

[@Pudlis16]

I’m a hardcore liberal but come on… this is totally sensationalist…. The teacher’s absolutely right. I really look forward to getting into the reenactment scene when I can afford to, my maternal ancestor fought for the Union in the 53rd Wisconsin.

[@larrywilliams8335]

They say it’s history but don’t want to teacher critical race theory in schools it doesn’t make sense

[@jessicatidwell7673]

Most reenactors support the teaching of all history. Especially what is left out of the history books. We can’t control what they choose to teach, especially these days with all this cancel culture. That’s part of the reason they reenact. Not to “support slavery or racism, but to support history. So the darkest times in our nation aren’t forgotten. Like it has been said, if we don’t learn from our past how can we stop it from repeating?

[@Bostonceltics1369]

@@jessicatidwell7673 your arguments are so weird what are you trying to convince us of what history is left out? The civil war was fought because the South wanted to secede from the Union due to them being pro-slavery. The one mistake that the United States made was not executing the seditionist traitors from the confederacy.

[@jessicatidwell7673]

@@Bostonceltics1369 I’m not saying that it wasn’t about slavery or that it was right. I’m only trying to say that most confederate soldiers didn’t even own slaves. Those soldiers were fighting due to economic reasons. Most were farmers or some other small trade and were fighting against things like rising taxes and things like that. So saying that all of the south was fighting to keep slavery is just not true. Some did fight for those reasons but it wasn’t the case for the whole.

[@Bostonceltics1369]

@@jessicatidwell7673 you say you understand then you demonstrate your lack of understanding. What is the relationship between economics and slavery?

[@henryfurgason8626]

Grammar?

[@FreeSpeechAbsolutist1776]

Japan celebrates the lives lost of each side of their Civil war. They even considered the rebel Saigō Takamori to be a great hero even though he took up arms against his government and lost. I see this as no different.

[@paulbraine674]

George flloyd wasn’t murdered

[@adaminfinity1733]

I have uncles that do civil war reenactments. Super conservative. One used to be a racist, he doesn't seem that way now. I see him post about black people who fought in the military.

[@josh05683]

Yeah, that’s what Lost Causers use to validate the claim that the war wasn’t about slavery. All and I mean all slaves that fought for the Confederacy were forced in one way or another. The story can claim they volunteered, but they didn’t.

[@selfishstockton6123]

Civil war monuments should not be torn down. They should be placed in museums to preserve history. This is sickening to watch

[@FordHoard]

No. Don't give them one inch. Leave them where they're at.

[@allisterbernal5954]

I believe in heritage. The Civil War is what made this country. This war defined us for generations to come. To deny re-enactments would deny the war’s importance and, in essence, this country.

[@EducationHPBH]

low key this event looks cool

[@AWildmanOfDunland]

I can confirm, I was in the ranks as a union private, and been in the reenacting "business" for 3 years. I do both impressions (US and CS), and like most people are saying 99.999999% of us reenacting the civil war really are just history buffs out for a weekend of cosplay and camping.

[@braedenfurman9434]

That's why they do it!

[@blainehillis1921]

I like the material aspect of these re enactments. Kids need to know how we got to where we are today. This was the worst war of its era. What came before WWI & WWII? The American Civil War. To cover it lightly.

[@briendoyle3823]

Really now. Try learning about the Wars against the Native Americans. Millions killed including civilians.

[@blainehillis1921]

@@briendoyle3823 LMAO. YOu gotta be kidding 🤦🏽 I know more about the Indian (Navajo/Apache to be particular) wars than I do about anything else. Being an enrolled member of the latter tribe. The civil war is interesting to me because during that exact same time we we’re fighting bluecoats armed and dressed exactly like this. We also engaged in firefights with the rebs in New Mexico. At a place called Ojo de la Culebra (Snake springs near today’s Magdalena, NM) confederate fighters on patrol caught sight of a Diné raiding party that had just driven off a sizable herd of cattle and horses from the Spanish speaking settlers along the Rio Grande.probably low on rations they decided to lay an ambush at the water hole. They sprung the trap and shot two warriors while we counterattacked and made for their flank killing two with arrows before breaking contact.

[@briendoyle3823]

@@blainehillis1921 : Blaine really now. And yet somehow you don't think the American / Native American Wars were not the worst let alone the longest in history of America. 300 years and tens of millions of Natives killed. But yeah you know more the Native Wars particularly the ( Navajo / Apache). What about the Crow or Lakota or Shoshone or Sioux? Every War is a tragedy but we Americans are so arrogant and ignorant we overlook the real facts of the past and history is definitely not our strongest point. Hell most Americans think we defeated the Nazi's and won WW2.

[@blainehillis1921]

@@briendoyle3823 bro idk what you’re tryna project here but we’re talking about the civil war here. Millions died in the span of months across four years. While millions of indigenous North Americans did die, they were slain over five centuries and countless wars. Most of those deaths were by disease as well. Microbes killed far more Indians than the guns of any armies or militias sent to out to exterminate. And as far as those other nations are concerned. Go ask them if you want to hear about them. I have no right to speak for them.

[@briendoyle3823]

@@blainehillis1921 : Lucky for you gowl I am still awake. 1st. Your original comment said kids need to focus on how we got here today. Then you seemingly emphasized how it was the worst war of its era. That is just ignorant or typical arrogance of a uneducated person. Now while the Civil War did indeed see over 800,000 Americans die from both sides the North and the South. Notice how you don't learn about the millions of Natives who died in that same era. You also don't learn about the millions of slaves who died during that era. No we just focus on certain people's forget about anything else. 2nd. You don't even know your own history. According to you millions died during the 4 years of the Civil War. Say what? Not even a million you dippy. And that's counting killed in action and disease combined. Hell you can throw in civilian deaths and you might barely have a million. So do yourself a favor in the future dont leave a idiotic comment and then when someone who actually is knowledgeable about the subject you are remarking about comments back to you. Dont try to act smart and post a comment that is so fuc*king ridiculous its not even funny. For fucks sake I learned about this crap back in the 80's before the Internet. You know in books and doing actual research and have family who fought in the Civil War. Oh and by the way knucklehead I have a Uncle who is from the Blackfeet Tribe his name is Turtle.

[@gugalaxy7772]

I've been to stone mountain many times before, to get rid of that is a prime example of over sensitivity.

[@Eringobragh1861]

Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it

[@Shadowcu123]

The Dixiecrats want to erase their evil history to keep all them votes in the plantation aka democrats

[@michaelkleen7991]

Civil War reenacting is only "controversial" among idiots. Historical reeacting is an exciting way to bring the past to life and educate people who might otherwise never crack open a book. These people spend thousands of dollars and volunteer their time to educate and entertain the public for FREE or little cost. So you can go look at how those men fought, what they ate, what equipment they used, etc.

[@rebel55th]

It's just a hobby and more and more people have discovered it... and enjoy it. Nothing else to it. The story is a load of tosh that is just trying to stir up trouble. That's from me, an ACW reenactor... in the Uk!

[@ItzMeNike]

You know what I would've answered had that man said "Do people call you a racist" ? I would've said "Do people call you a criminal" ?. The point I made is that stereotypes is a thing and always will be. People would rather paint a brush than take the time to get to know someone. Because it's less effort doing so.

[@briendoyle3823]

Wow, what a ignorant comment seriously. No knucklehead if someone is doing reenactments and talking about South of course people are going to ask if you are a bigot. It's not stereotyping someone but a observation especially with our current events. Your bigotry comes out by suggesting someone would just him a criminal because he is black. What did you base that on exactly. Are there no White criminals. Was reenacting some crime that would make someone think that. No not even close.

[@SpiritualBabydoll]

Don’t disrespect them they are showing what it was like where so many Americans were lost. They are keeping history alive. Get over it

[@meejinhuang]

The Civil War is over and the South lost badly.

[@papawheelie5576]

Thanks, professor! 🤡

[@AKing69]

Maybe if they keep doing the reenactments the story will end differently.

[@meridian1928]

You do realize that there are Union reenactors too, right?

[@henryfurgason8626]

@@meridian1928 Everybody seems to forget that!

[@henryfurgason8626]

WHAAAAAAAAT!?

[@hunterknobelcatholicknight3006]

Where can I sign up for the reenactment

[@PoshingtonSpark]

Where are you located?

[@Brandon-yg7mw]

History is awesome. They're just a bunch of old history buffs.

[@mikebryant8507]

They don’t know history

[@Combateffective]

@@mikebryant8507 what history do they not know about?

[@DE4DF1SH]

Many (not all) of them believe in the “lost cause” interpretation of the Civil War, which is the idea that the South fought for the preservation of their rights and freedom to decide for themselves. They'd say that nobody fought to preserve racial slavery; nobody fought to end it. Of course, all actual historians know this to be untrue.

[@henryfurgason8626]

@@DE4DF1SH Why are jumping to such large conclusions? Do you know every reenactor, or are you making a very hasty generalization?

[@DE4DF1SH]

I've been studying this for 9 years now, and I teach US History, so... I'm a bit of an expert myself.

[@justcallmeassinine]

Nothing sexier than an obese, bearded, middle-aged man in a Civil War outfit !

[@YellowMonkeyVirus]

nothing sexier than small eye and yellow skin

[@Combateffective]

If that's the case. You will love the Rev War uniforms!

[@zombi111980]

Stop lying we do have ww2 reenactments in germany!

[@eserieb8014]

I would like to do a civil war reenactment on both sides of the war

[@JV-NY987]

There's a sudden interest because racists and racism are gearing up for a round 2. Pay attention America especially Black America

[@johnnyd1391]

“if you don’t know who you’re voting for then you ain’t black”

[@blacksheep933]

really

[@chrisbammer8679]

Projection

[@JV-NY987]

@@chrisbammer8679 the FBI director (who was appointed by Trump) says the biggest threat to domestic safety is white supremacists....now theres and up tick in "civil war" reenactments? Coincidence? I think not... the cause of the war was "states rights" yeah the right to keep slaves.....

[@mikebryant8507]

@@chrisbammer8679 you will lose again

[@bambang303378]

How is it "Racist?" It is piece of American history. Growing popularity means this thing is more entertaining than all these non sense stuff on tv these days.

[@musthavemetalradio]

I am a longtime reenactor for a Confederate unit. I am not some skinhead or Klan member. In fact, my wife is Chinese and we have a beautiful daughter. Schools don't teach the truth about Abraham Lincoln. He didn't believe in equality and there are documents that prove this. In the Emancipation Proclamation (which was unconstitutional) it only freed the slaves in the Confederate states and not the border states like Kentucky or Missouri because there was slavery in those states and they had many units that fought for the Union. So, he didn't want to piss them off or they would have left too. Not to mention the fact that Lincoln's plan was to colonize the freed slaves in Africa or South America. But yet we have a Lincoln Memorial. Reenacting is not racist. It is an opportunity for people to see what it was like and learn about an important era of our nation's history.

[@brockhoffpauir1894]

So reinacting history is celebrating slavery are you kidding

[@unclelumbago_1899]

It’s important to remember the civil war so that it never happens again and to remember the hero’s of the north

[@johnpenn8444]

If anyone knows of an active North Carolina regiment, I am looking.

[@youtubemodsaresnowflakelef7692]

People wonder why there are 40% of young people who support Socialism. The answer to why this is happening can be seen at 1:50 ish. A history teacher, who says "History is offensive" "we can only learn from it if it's offensive". No, History is not offensive. As a Historian he should know that to look at historic events with modern day views on "morality" (like we really have much left today...) is wrong, and that historic events need to be viewed through the lense of THEIR contempary time. Anything else is what I like to call "temporal chauvinism". That doesn't mean we can't learn from History, and from (what we perceive to be wrong) the wrong doings etc of History. Maybe he was just expressing himself badly, but I doubt it. Far Leftists (even Communists) have been allowed to infiltrate the education system UNCHECKED for decades, using their position of "authority" to push their ideology on young, easily impressed minds. This mostly was confined to colleges (and even there only in niche fields) in the past, but that is no longer true, it's steadily trickling down into 2ndary education and even towards extremely young children. In my country it's against the law for teachers to politically influence students, yet that never stopped the Leftoids from doing it, they just fancied themselves to be subtle about it (bringing up issues that are totally unrelated to the curriculum, and giving a leftist spin to them via half truths etc, instead of presenting them in an actually objective and neutral member and simply moderating the discussion). This was 20ish years ago, I can only imagine how brazen they are these days, and from what I can see in US media it's far worse in the US. Children being kicked out for wearing MAGA stuff or American flags as "offensive" and "racist", while wearing Black Power symbols (like the black fist) is totally fine, as are LGBTQ and even "MAP" (what a disgusting term) flags, BLM flags (a highly political organization/movement, where the leadership openly stated that they're "trained Marxists", not to mention scammers/embezzlers and thieves) and so on. The media isn't innocent in this either. I suggest you get off your asses and actually do something, rather than just complain in youtube comments (for fear of being cancelled/losing your jobs etc), before you lose something that matters more: Your country, your freedom or maybe even your life. I witness overreach after overreach particularly by the Democrat party (outright violations of the 2nd amendment, attempts to violate the 1st amendment via calling for "hate speech" legislation but using "hate speech" to broadly define even the tiniest of "micro aggression" - another term, that is extremely disgusting - etc), and nothing is done. People always yap about the "silent majority". Guess what: Pretty much every dictatorship ever (incl. Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union) had a "silent majority". It takes a measly 20-25% of support in the population to curtail everyone's freedom, when it comes down to it, if all the majority does is "be silent".

[@christopherridgway6236]

I used to revolutionary war reenactment in Virginia. It's great fun! Pick an era, find a group. Certain areas are better for certain eras. Civil war is pretty easy to get into East, Middle, and South. Where I moved to is not great for Revolutionary War. Sometimes Civil War is your only practical choice in some States.

[@davidmurray5399]

I've done reenacting as member of the 1st Minnesota. My Great-Great Grandfather served in the 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, which is why I will only do a Union portrayal. The irony of Secession is that it was the most effective agent in the abolition of slavery.

[@timothyjohnson4890]

Interesting. We portray the 8th OVI out here in California. All respect to your ancestors, sir!

[@scottleespence752]

@@timothyjohnson4890 Hi Tim! See you at Elk Grove!

[@Slyassassin34]

Funny story American Civil War reenactment are very popular in Germany a friend of mine who lives in Berlin only reenacts as a Confederate soldier completely blew my mind

[@briskflicks688]

4:43 did you just not listen? its a remembrence of our history. im sure the germans dont just brush the holocaust umder the rug. they recognize it and acknowledge their mistake and learn from it. thats what they do

[@luketanker6074]

Confederate reenactor here, I urge these people to join one of these and get to talk to some of us, they are the nicest people you'll ever meet.

[@jamesrichardson3322]

I am a Federal American Civil War Reenactor, in Illinois, I enjoy the comrade and enjoy sitting talking and spend my weekend with like minded people. I enjoy doing living history were people can come to our camp and learn about Civil War History and the life of a Federal Army soldier and etc. I love answer questions from the public, and enjoy taking photos with people

[@HistoryandWhiskey]

I am also. Which unit are you with?

[@jamesrichardson3322]

@@HistoryandWhiskey What unit are you in? I am with the 45th Illinois Volunteers Infantry Company C Corcoran Guard Washburn Lead Mine Regiment Galena Illinois Jo Daviees Country. I am not currently active.

[@HistoryandWhiskey]

@@jamesrichardson3322 1st Michigan engineers and mechanics. We fall in with the 45th all the time. Small world. I got several friends in the 45th.

[@jamesrichardson3322]

@@HistoryandWhiskey Well you have one more 😁!! I think we have met many occasions during events, I protray James Mason Day. I have taken time off reenacting do to personal matters, I am planning my return soon!! When I feel better!!

[@jacksonhatfield9367]

I hate that people try to destroy history and even stop re-enactors history should always be remembered not forgotten if we do not remember the past, we are doomed to repeat it!

[@jhoss8524]

Have seen videos of ww2 reenacting in Germany so maybe check facts

[@meridian1928]

The news media's job is to report facts?!? That has not been my experience!

[@walthyde5159]

there is also a lot of WW2 reenactments in US portraying Germany

[@gb5uq]

Interesting that what most Americans and the anti American media in particular consider to be the confederate flag is in fact not the original flag of the confederation. The first confederate flag was the Stars and Bars. Funny this Limey knows that but most Yanks don't. History is written by the victors and the war of northern aggression certainly is a good example of that.

[@newenglandpatriot4069]

0:42 what's with the scally cap?

[@mr.destroyer3225]

The German argument for why they don't have statues or monuments of the third Reich was because the allied forces went out of their way to destroy anything so there wouldn't be a resurgent of Nazi ideals in Germany which if I remember correctly Lincoln and the north wanted to do but after Lincoln was assassinated everything changed with the next president's policies and it's kind of the reason why we still have these types of statues and everything here.

[@AmericanSoldierSioux1969]

I just signed up for the Civil War reenactment in California, previous U.S. Army experience Desert Storm / Iraqi Freedom now a proud retired Army Veteran. I'm half-Sioux and half-White and I have no "issues" with the racial aspect of it and personally I don't really care or get into the "politics" of it, just want to be part of Civil War history, nothing more. I can also learn from this experience since my school U.S. History knowledge is diminishing the older I get. Whether I'll be taking the Union or Confederate side.....does it really matter? It's called "reenactment" folks. Because I know there's some of you out there that take this very seriously as far as being "political" since the George Floyd incident that happened over 3 years ago now...I don't. Life happens folks, that's just the way it is unfortunately. And believe it or not folks, there's still prejudice even with the Whites / Sioux when I was living on a Reservation in North Dakota many moons ago, I know from experience.

[@smhmay1973]

This reporter said that Germany doesn't do this kind of reenactment. Germans don't do Nazi reenactments, but they do U.S. Civil War reenactments. In fact, there is a KZbin program about it available.

[@chris-solmon4017]

How do it “controversial?” Because it’s history, and you psychopaths don’t want humans to know their history?

[@pfclumi]

Keep our history alive.

[@AstnLivingHistory]

The history is important, it’s a good thing people are looking back and reenacting is a great hobby. Ngl though the civil war especially is a sensitive topic and you just have to be careful and keep the intent on representing history.

[@chrisbammer8679]

Keep the intent on having fun. Anything you do someone is going to bitch about it. Not enough people know how to tune out the whiners

[@AstnLivingHistory]

@@chrisbammer8679 yes, but other people exist. I’m saying this to the people that don’t understand it.

[@projectarma]

If you have an issue with reenacting you’re a little snowflake. It’s fun and helps to preserve and remember history.

[@Moor_Fish]

The people who love these re-enactments are also against CRT… Hypocrisy

[@makeyyyy7890]

That very true

[@Combateffective]

Why is it hypocrisy?

[@Moor_Fish]

@@Combateffective the main argument maid against CRT is that it makes white people feel guilty. Yet white people give 2 shots about how black people feel about these reenactments

[@Combateffective]

@@Moor_Fish the feeling guilty is a real objective of CRT, but the primary reason why there's an objection to CRT is it is an attempt to retell history. ... If some blacks feel that reenacting is a negative. Then I would consider reaching out to the members of the 54th and other USCT Soldier groups who are just as vital as the other reenacting groups.

[@briendoyle3823]

@@Combateffective : Okay 1st explain Critical Race Theory. 2nd. While your at it please explain who teaches Critical Race Theory. 3rd. Explain how Critical Race Theory is a attempt to rewrite history. Then explain to me your thoughts on Native American Critical Race Theory which I'm sure you know all about as well, correct.

[@smhmay1973]

For all you critics of history reenacting , do you realize that none of these people advocate the overthrow or destruction of the government of the United States of America? However, there are several organizations who do. Black Lives Matter, NAACP, Farakhan are some examples. Witness the Black National Anthem played at sporting events. Isn't that divisive? Also, reenactors from Northern states are active in this. Grant ,Lincoln and other Union heroes' statues have been pulled down by these organizations. They fought for the North as I recall. By the way, these reenactors DON'T use fake cannon or rifles. They are all still capable of lethal use. This reporter is only showing his ignorance and prejudice.

[@jaklinhyde]

The problem is some ppl want just certain type of history, let’s put ALL the history out there

[@alien_man4327]

Civil war reenactments rock

[@mikebryant8507]

You lost get over it

[@jamalwilburn228]

@@mikebryant8507 Civil War reenacting is more then just the Confederacy.

[@SirSusDaddy]

@@mikebryant8507 no way!

[@SirSusDaddy]

thats crazy

[@meridian1928]

@@jamalwilburn228 You're absolutely right. The 135th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg was one of the biggest reenactments ever, and the Union carries the day. Why people don't understand that Union victories are reenacted too is beyond me.

[@steveturner3864]

You can’t stop us. We are what we are. Pound sand

[@matthewskudzienski888]

Me and Dad were dressed up like Union soldiers from American civil war reenactment of the musket drill training in Massachusetts in 2017

[@Dr.PrettyProfessor]

So they only want to be reminded of the part of history that makes them feel good to be reminded of... GOT IT!

[@sSuperpu]

It’s their hobby. They wake up and go to work every day, and choose to enjoy their free time doing that. It makes them happy in life. The era fascinates them and they’re imaginary minded like conservative cosplay/renaissance. Stop trying to take everyone’s happiness away from them.

[@MeadeFatLoss]

God bless General Lee !

[@meridian1928]

These comments are so disheartening. I feel like most of these folks believe that DiCaprio drowned in the Atlantic and Rickman died falling from Nakatomi Tower. No ability to separate the actor from the role.

[@jordanox2051]

How dishonest and condescending this report was. If you don't like the reenactments, don't attend one. The NAACP is all about live and let live unless it's something they don't like.

[@GMANN83]

Now that part about tearing down Confederate statues I'm against that because I want other countries to see how heinous America was And how permitted racism is still active in the States.

[@arnowisp6244]

Nope. All those Statue do is Celebrate the Bravery and Courage of those Men. Even a Nazi has a Memorial in China because he saw just how Sick the Japanese were to the Chinese and actually made a Complaint about it. And it was enough for the Chinese to give him a Memorial.

[@cplmark29]

some people act like America was the only country to have slavery, Slavery still exists in some parts of Africa today. History is what it is. Ps slavery existed under the America flag for over 80 years.and during WW-2 blacks were segregated in the U.S. Army.

[@MichaelJCaboose98]

"shocking and insensitive reminder of America's dark past" should we just forget it never happened then? What a room temperature take.

[@arnowisp6244]

Exactly what they want. To forget it.

[@tonybarde2572]

There are Black reenactors out there who play Union colored troops

[@calebriddle4939]

I am with the Confederates and most of the black reenactors are soldiers with the CS infantry.

[@tonybarde2572]

@@calebriddle4939 No

[@calebriddle4939]

@@tonybarde2572 What do you mean?

[@PoshingtonSpark]

@@calebriddle4939 yeah i rarely see USCT. Almost all black reenactors i see are confederate ironically.

[@christophergraves6725]

People the world over are proud of their history and the ties to those who came before them. There are historical reenactments of all time periods including ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, American Revolution battles, the Battle of Waterloo, The Battle of New Orleans, the two world wars and others. The Old South provided a tremendous culture that all Southerners should be proud of. That did include slavery. But so did ancient Greece and Rome that made possible their high culture that modern Europe and its outposts including America descended from. No one today advocates the return of slavery, but there are a lot of people including myself who want to return to the elegance, grace and chivalry that was evidenced in the Old South. For a deeper understanding of this way of life take a look at historian Eugene Genovese's work on the South that painted the South as an example of a Mytho-Poetic approach to life. This is what Southerners and others from around the world value about our history. If someone is really so concerned about slavery, then what are they doing to free the millions of people enslaved around the world today? There are more slaves now than in the 19th Century. Usually, the opposition to remembering the Civil War and the ante-bellum South is not slavery per se. Rather, it is opposition to a socially conservative Christian culture that keeps alive its historical and cultural distinctives.

[@FordMustangry-wu7mh]

I must have missed it when i reenacted the parts that were about slavery. People act like we were out on a plantation reenacting beatings, whippings, chaced by dogs, splitting up familys etc. People have no clue they just see something turn it into what they want then want everybody else to see it, and if you dare not to see it there way then your a racist. Our beloved american flag flew over states that had slaves for how many years before the civil war? If your going to take down, destroy southern monuments, confederate flags etc., make sure you complete the job and do the same to the stars and stripes, if you dont wouldnt that make you a hypocrite?

[@mistertaffy6720]

It was the deadliest war for America, and might I add its probably fun to reenact the battles, while getting an idea of the brutally of America's conflicting ideology.

[@IgabodDobagi]

The monuments are being targeted not because our delicate sensibilities are being offended. They are being targeted because we should not be honoring racists, slave owners, or traitors to the country. A statue or monument is meant to honor a person that we look up to. We should not be doing that with these people. We should definitely learn about them in school. But a monument is not how you learn about history. It never has been and never will be. It is purely to honor a person for their deeds.

[@seanslawson98]

So we shouldn’t honor Jefferson, Washington, Lee just because they did something that was normal for thousands of years

[@v_spw4355]

Monuments are a reminder of how this country was built. This country is built by blood, guns, war etc. America wouldn't be here today without constant wars with neighboring territories that were owned by other countries, especially Britain. History books, Monuments, old documents dating back to when the country was founded are extremely important for future generations. Without history, countless people will repeat things that already happened. Unfortunately its happening now, but more knowledge can fix that. Just because the monuments represent "Racist" people, doesn't mean we shouldn't learn about their history. Us modern people put too much emotion of what happened in the past, we shouldn't do that because back then people had a different mindset then us today. What they thought back then was normal, today it isn't. We learn from our mistakes, but taking down monuments and destroying history won't solve anything, do anything, or help in any way, just would make more and more problems for future generations.

[@IgabodDobagi]

@@v_spw4355 the vast majority of the monuments to civil war generals and the like were not erected way back in the aftermath of the civil war. They were erected within the past 50 to 60 years by racist groups including the Daughters of the Confederacy who also went to great pains to rewrite the history books to completely remove any mention of slavery in connection with the civil war. That's where the modern misconception that it was primarily about states rights comes from. The only right that was in danger at the time of the secession was the right to own human beings as property. And these groups that erected the monuments did so purely to further misinform the populace. One such "historic" monument that is famously being defended currently is Stone Mountain which was only finished in 1970. And as I said, a monument does absolutely nothing to teach us about history. That has never been the purpose of monuments and it never will be.

[@pfclumi]

That makes me mad they were destroying the monuments. We need this for a reminder.

[@elizabethd3038]

Did you ever stop to think how black people feel when they see those statues? Families annihilated. History annihilated. All because a race of people who are now fighting to keep those statues and remember what they did and celebrate the horrible people who did it.