Failing Legacy: SC University Closure

The Citadel, a South Carolina military college established in 1842, is facing renewed scrutiny regarding its Confederate imagery and historical ties to slavery. A legal battle is underway concerning the ownership of 180 letters written by former Citadel cadets during the Civil War, revealing the pervasive influence of pro-slavery sentiment and Confederate allegiance among the institution's student body at the time. The letters, currently owned by a private collector, offer firsthand accounts of cadets' experiences fighting for the Confederacy. While some alumni argue that these letters provide valuable historical insight, others fear they could be used to further glorify a painful and divisive past. The debate about these letters highlights a broader conversation surrounding The Citadel's complex legacy. Despite efforts to modernize and diversify its student body, the institution continues to grapple with its Confederate past. Historical markers and symbols, including Confederate flags that once flew on campus, serve as constant reminders of this heritage. Efforts to address the college's connection to slavery have been met with mixed reactions. The removal of some Confederate symbols has been seen as a step in the right direction by some, while others view it as an erasure of history. The ongoing legal battle over the cadet letters underscores the deep divisions that still exist regarding how The Citadel should reconcile its past with its present and future. find the original article here: https://www.yahoo.com/news/180-old-private-south-carolina-160458583.html