I am of Irish ancestry. Before, during and after the Civil War, the Irish were at a low social station — “No Irish Need Apply.” I have never owned a slave, nor did any of my ancestors.

During the Civil War, some estimates say 480,000 white people lost their lives to end slavery. Should Blacks compensate people of those ancestors? My ancestors lost lives and limbs during the Civil War to free the slaves. Should I be compensated? Should people of ancestors who came to America after the Civil War pay reparations?

A person is not accountable for the actions of his or her ancestors. This subject is ridiculous and is instilling racial hatred. We would be wise to drop it and move on.

Howard L. McHenry

East Vandergrift

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