Beginning tomorrow, in an effort to highlight the pivotal role it played in the conflict, South Carolina will start celebrating the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. Some of the events planned include a secession ball, a display of the original Ordinance of Secession, and a reenactment of what are considered to be the first hostile shots of the war. The plans have proven to be the teensiest bit controversial. “We are not opposed to observances,” said Lonnie Randolph, president of the NAACP’s South Carolina Conference. “We are opposed to disrespect. This is nothing more than a celebration of slavery.” The state claims no money will be spent on celebration, though the General Assembly appropriated $65,000, most of which has been spent by the state Department of Archives and History hiring a part-time organizer and setting up a website. [State via HuffPo]
