Letter | Jefferson Davis
A recent opinion piece painted a dismal picture of one of Kentucky’s most famous citizens, Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederate States. It contained quotes from a book about Davis, written by an author who is less than enthusiastic about the former president. As one would expect, there are many other books that are favorable about Davis and his history. Obviously, none of us who are living today knew Davis and our knowledge of what his intentions and beliefs were is influenced entirely by what we read and view, positive or negative.
Davis is an important part of Kentucky’s history, whether one admires him or not. Removing his statue from our Capitol Rotunda, as has been suggested, cannot erase his influence on the history of our state and country. Jefferson Davis served his country, both locally and nationally in a wide array of offices, up to and including U.S. senator. He accepted the office of president of the Confederate States because of his firm commitment to states’ rights, a concept that is still being debated regularly today.
Muhammad Ali truly has come a long way since we knew him as Cassius Clay Jr. His fame as a leading sports figure is undeniable, but our Capitol Rotunda is a place for Kentuckians who will always be remembered for their place in Kentucky’s political history. It is not the place for sports figures and we cannot alter our history by putting another face on it.
TERRY AKIN, SR.
Shepherdsville, Ky. 40165 –