Proposed Amendment, Famous Ship: Down in Alabama

A Piece of History Lost to Time

A proposed amendment to Alabama's constitution would remove language referring to a Confederate warship from the state's official motto. The amendment, which was approved by the Alabama House of Representatives in March, would replace the phrase "We Dare Defend Our Rights" with "We Dare Defend Our Liberties." The proposed amendment must be approved by the Alabama Senate and then by voters in a statewide referendum. If passed, Alabama would be the first state to remove language referring to the Confederacy from its state motto.

The CSS Alabama

The CSS Alabama was a Confederate warship that was built in England and launched in 1862. The ship was one of the most successful Confederate raiders during the Civil War, capturing or sinking more than 60 Union ships. The Alabama was sunk by the USS Kearsarge off the coast of Cherbourg, France, in 1864. The wreck of the Alabama was discovered in 1984 and is now a protected site.

The Debate Over the Motto

The debate over the Alabama state motto has been going on for years. Proponents of the amendment argue that the phrase "We Dare Defend Our Rights" is outdated and offensive. They say that the phrase is a reminder of Alabama's history of slavery and segregation. Opponents of the amendment argue that the phrase is a part of Alabama's history and should not be removed. They say that the phrase is a symbol of Alabama's independence and courage.

The Future of the Motto

The future of the Alabama state motto is uncertain. The amendment must be approved by the Alabama Senate and then by voters in a statewide referendum. If passed, Alabama would be the first state to remove language referring to the Confederacy from its state motto. The debate over the motto is likely to continue for years to come.

Conclusion

The proposed amendment to Alabama's state motto is a controversial issue. The amendment has been approved by the Alabama House of Representatives, but it must still be approved by the Alabama Senate and then by voters in a statewide referendum. The debate over the motto is likely to continue for years to come.