History lessons is a grouping of historical stories and tidbits. The topics range from the American Civil War through interesting items from around the world. Please use the comments area to ask questions and make suggestions for future topics.
By James Breig On Nov. 11, 1918, the citizens of Anaconda, Montana, held an impromptu parade. Among the prominent participants was William Tell Moore, a black constable. Carrying a large American flag, he led a delegation of black citizens “in a manner that personified dignity and patriotism,” said a newspaper. The occasion was the first Armistice Day,… continue
By James Breig John Philip Sousa, the composer, was dubbed “The March King” for his many flag-related and patriotic melodies. So maybe E.T. Paull should be nicknamed “The March Prince.” Now long forgotten, Paull was a major figure in music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Recently, Bill Edwards wrote a book about… continue
When war breaks out, former friends can become enemies, and one-time foes might turn into allies. As a result, once-hated flags get saluted and formerly beloved banners are banished. That was certainly true when World War I began nearly 100 years ago, as demonstrated in patriotic postcards of the period. For example, a French postcard… continue
By James Breig A recent post examined how, during the Civil War 150 years ago, the U.S. flag became more beloved in the North and deeply despised in the South. At Gettysburg, Shiloh, Vicksburg and other battles, the Union troops marched proudly beneath Old Glory, while their Dixie opponents had their own banner to cherish…. continue
By James Breig During the Civil War 150 years ago, flag-bearers were targets. On battlefields from Gettysburg to Petersburg, they were in the crosshairs of their opponents. The reason for that is that they played such a pivotal role when a battle was joined. Soldiers looked to flags, including their regimental colors, to show them… continue