The phrase signifies the apply of politicians referencing the blood shed in the course of the American Civil Conflict to criticize opponents. It was typically utilized by Republicans within the a long time following the warfare to affiliate the Democratic Occasion with the Confederacy and treason. An instance could be a political speaker utilizing emotionally charged rhetoric about Union troopers to sway voters in opposition to a Democratic candidate.
This tactic was necessary as a result of it supplied a robust, if typically manipulative, technique for sustaining political energy. By evoking sturdy feelings associated to the warfare’s sacrifices, it aimed to safe votes and delegitimize the opposition. Its historic context is rooted within the deep divisions and resentments left by the Civil Conflict, providing a potent weapon within the political area. The advantages, although ethically questionable, included consolidating help inside particular demographics and framing political debates in advantageous phrases.
