When I think of my Confederate heritage, the words persistence and pride come to mind. James Longstreet expressed these qualities as strong as any true Southern leader could. I am so grateful to be related to such a great man.  It is not everyday that a young man can look up to such a heroic leader, knowing he shares his blood.  I only hope I can become the man that Longstreet was.  Not every man can take command of so many loyal followers, with their lives in his hand, lead them into a situation in which "fighting for what is ours" comes to life. 
     The Confederacy is an elite group of men with a common mentality; to defend what they believe in with no regret.  Many people believe that Longstreet disobeyed General Lee's order, that he was not a man that shows Confederate leadership.  I believe he had a purpose for what he did.  Many people are too quick to judge.  Every individual of America is entitled to speak what they believe, and I believe regardless of these accusations, that he was and still is a true Confederate leader. 
     My father is a strong supporter of the Confederate legacy, and has always been so proud to be related to Longstreet.  Since I was a young boy he has told me so many stories of what a great general Longstreet truly was.  It wasn't until later on in my life that I was truly honored to be a part of someone so valued. 
When I think of Longstreet as a child, I doubt that he thought he would end up achieving everything he did.  Due to persistence and pride in himself and his beliefs, he stood up for his country, and fought in a war where so many gave their lives for what they believe in.  I can only hope that if Longstreet was to meet me today, that he would see some of himself in me, as a strong and intelligent leader. 
     There were so many great men in the Civil War.  For me to be related to one of the best is such an honor.  My relation to my distant uncle all starts in the state of New Jersey. Just like Longstreet's family, my parent's family was established there as well. My father was born and raised in New Jersey and his family tree goes all the way back to Longstreet's brother. It just goes to show how many Confederate relatives there are all over the United States, even in the once opposed Northern states.  As a young boy I grew up with the support of both of my parents, unlike Longstreet who lost his father and whose mother gave him to his Uncle.  I am not sure of the feelings he went through, but I can imagine it was not easy. It was just another obstacle that he overcame, showing his mental toughness.  Although his uncle raised him to be a well educated, Southern gentleman, Longstreet struggled as a student, but with hard work and dedication he graduated from West Point.  From there his climb to the top only continued until he became second in command of the Army of Northern Virginia under General Lee. He put his knowledge to work as the first general to use the railroad to deploy troops in battle. I feel that I should model myself after him, with a will to better myself and those around me, with creativity and intelligence.
     When it comes to working in a group, the members must cooperate and benefit from each others unique talents.  Arguing with a negative attitude towards change causes a group to achieve nothing.  Longstreet felt that after the war the best thing to do was to reconcile with the North to better his country.  A creative mind such as Longstreet's should not go to waste, but be used to improve the well being for those around him.  I applaud him for his pride and will to win for the South in every battle.  When such a thing as war comes to an end, a wise man knows not to dwell in the past, but have a will for bigger and better things. 
     Someone once said, to improve the future, one must improve the present, which in the end improves the past.  I believe Longstreet valued these beliefs with a strong passion.  I am so proud to be related to such a great Confederate Leader.

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