VA Gov. Bob McDonnell Recognizes Confederate History Month

VA Gov. Bob McDonnell has issued an order recognizing April as Confederate History Month, saying that it's important "to understand the sacrifices of the Confederate leaders, soldiers and citizens during the period of the Civil War." McDonnell's most recent order of this type recognized Christian Heritage Week.

April’s Confederate History Month recognition is at least the fourth proclamation McDonnell has issued since his inauguration in January, according to the governor’s Web site. The previous proclamation recognized March 7-13, 2010 as Christian Heritage Week and quoted Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Patrick Henry, George Mason citing religion or Jesus in comments. “These, and many other truly great men and women of America, giants in the structuring of American history, were statesmen of the highest caliber and integrity who did not hesitate to express their religious convictions, principles and faith,“ it states, before calling upon a special designation for the week.

Other states that recognize Confederate History Month: Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, and Texas. McDonnell made today's announcement in advance of next week's 149th anniversary of Virginia's secession from the Union.