What phrase is associated with Southern sentiments towards Northern soldiers post-Civil War?

The phrase "bloody shirt waving" is historically significant as it pertains to the emotional and political climate in the post-Civil War United States, particularly from the Southern perspective towards Northern soldiers and their actions during the war. This term refers to the practice of using the memory of the Civil War, particularly the violence and loss experienced by the South, to evoke emotional responses and rally public opinion against Northern politicians, especially in the context of Reconstruction.

In the aftermath of the Civil War, Southern leaders and advocates sought to promote narratives that highlighted the suffering endured by Southern families and soldiers. "Bloody shirt waving" became a rhetorical device used by some politicians to remind voters of the sacrifices made by Southern soldiers and to stoke resentment against the perceived imposition of Northern interests and policies on the South. This strategy was particularly aimed at countering the Reconstruction efforts, which many in the South viewed as punitive and vindictive.

Understanding "bloody shirt waving" is essential for grasping the broader complexities of post-war sentiments and political strategies employed by Southern leaders as they navigated the challenges of rebuilding their society while grappling with the legacies of war and defeat. This phrase encapsulates a critical aspect of the historical discourse surrounding the Civil War's aftermath and the contentious