Are they also preparing additional appolgies for the indentured servants that came across the sea from Europe? How about apologies for the "Black Irish" who were treated rather poorley in the 19th century. What about the "Chinese Problem" once again these people were unjustly treated.

 Will all of this political correctness never end? When will we become Americans one and all, and accept the fact that our nations history is just that "Our History"? It is why we are the nation that we have become, and there is no reason for any American to apologize for what we were and what we are.

Tophat

My dear Mr. Tophat~

I was so hoping to open a discussion on this subject! Thank you.... I hope others follow suit... both for and against.

My Mother and I go round and round concerning the casinos in CT and the Native Americans. I shall refrain from expressing my opinions at this time.

So I ask you all.....Should we, as a society, make compensation for our Forefathers actions?

Anyone???

~Miss Rose

Personally, I feel like there is so much water under the bridge that it's impossible to hold anyone responsible. And therefore, does the apoligy do any good? Is anyone feeling better now? Are the descendents of white slaveholders saying, "glad we got that off our chests. I feel better." And are there any decendants of slaves who are saying, "Nice! I feel so much better. I forgive all now!"

No, a few politicians now feel better for saying a few words that in my humble opinion mean very little at this late date.

And frankly, the idea of reparations scares me. Is it even possible to prove who alive today is responsible? And if you do agree that a State or company or individual needs to pay for the crimes of their ancestors, can you prove who they need to pay reparations to?

Although there is no evidence that I am aware of that any of my ancestors were slaves, owned slaves, or were involved in the transportation of slaves, I admit it's possible.

My earliest ancestors came from France in the 17th century. It's possible one of them was an indentured servant or held indentured servants. A few branches were seafaring men in the 18th and 19th century. It's possible one of them was involved in the triangle trade. But I don't know if I owe anyone an apology or if I'm owed an apology from someone else.

I do know this, I would not be where I am standing today if whatever came before had not happened. If my ancestors were treated badly or treated someone else badly to survive the earliest days of this country, and I'm sure both were true in some form or fashion, I'm still thankful to be here today.

Slavery is wrong, but it is an evil tradition that goes back to the beggining of time. And although much of the world has moved past slavery, it is still practiced in some places. If we are to apologize for something then perhaps we should feel sorry that we have been unable to end the practice completely. For those held in captivity today, I am sorry.

I could not agree with you more, nicely stated!

Tophat