Constructive gadfly
Published on August 14, 2007 By stevendedalus In Politics

A recent Washington Post editorial points out that the 150th anniversary of Dred Scott decision spurred in Maryland new protests that the chief justice [Taney] who wrote the decision: “… beings of an inferior order, and altogether unfit to associate with the white race, either in social or political relations.”

Yet Maryland on public grounds has three statues of Taney causing activists to demand removal of these statues at the State House and City Hall. The Post’s view that in spite of this or even because of it the statues should remain, Then they use the lame excuse that removal would cost $100,000 that could be put to close the gaps in educ ation—yeah, right.

They further defend their presence by using them as icons for the shame of America, reminding Americans of the “warts” and stains on US history. Then why the cheers when Russians tore down Lenin and Stalin shouldn’t they, too, be reminded of the evil that was; and certainly more recently in Iraq why the hoopla in destroying Saddam’s abundant display of himself? Would not the Iraqis want democracy more if they had his ghost around to remind them?


Comments
on Aug 15, 2007

What a difference a border makes.  I take it Taney is a Marylander?  In Virginia, especially Richmond, we have a street - appropriately named Monument avenue.  Until about 10 years ago, it contained mostly (there were a couple of exceptions) monuments to Civil war heros (of the Southern persuasion).  No one is demanding they be torn down.

But 10 years ago, the city wanted to honor one of its most famous natives.  A man named Arthur Ashe.  You might remember him as the first black to win Wimbledon.  When they decided to put a statue up on Monument avenue, there was a big hue and cry, but eventually it was placed there.  And no one seems to mind any more.  NOw they want to place a statue of Oliver Hill Sr (the Rosa Parks of Richmond).  He will probably get his as well (he recently died at age 100).  I am sure there will be some bellyaching but it will be done.

Maryland (and fortunately only a few Virginians) need to learn that history is where you came from.  It is not where you are.  Denying history is a lie, but understanding it means that the mistakes of the past are not going to rule your present.

on Aug 15, 2007
Yes, there will be belly-aching over monuments good or bad in content, time and place. Asa you imply if you want the good you take the bad with it.
on Aug 15, 2007
How come they'll leave up this guy who said that, but they feel the need to rip down the 10 Commandments?
on Aug 15, 2007
feel the need to rip down the 10 Commandments?
It was the nutty judge's personal property; it belonged on his lawn.