During the U.S. Civil War, hundreds of thousands of U.S. soldiers died fighting to preserve the Union and free four million men, women and children from human bondage.
Slavery was America's greatest sin, and the Confederacy was founded to defend it. At a time when so many are fighting over Confederate flags, monuments and celebrations, this country should collectively raise the bar and challenge such narratives.
This is best done by nationally commemorating and remembering the Ratification of the 13th Amendment (April 8th, 1865) and the surrender of Robert E. Lee at Appomattox (April 9th, 1865) as a two-day, springtime national holiday.
Such a holiday, rather than encouraging division, will promote unity and help heal this nation's wounds.