This monument is in place to honor the men who served their country, during the Civil War.  Removing this statue will not change history.  It is a reminder, that during a time of great strife, great men were honorable and stood proud, even when facing their own death.  The monument is defined by each individual differently. If seen as a reminder that slavery happened and represents the begining of the struggle for African Americans, why erase it?  If seen as a dedication to lives lost, why erase it.?  If seen as a symbol of unity and perseverance at a time of war, why erase it?  It is history.