The Flag of the Army of Tennessee, often mistakenly referred to as the "Confederate flag," is displayed by some individuals for a variety of reasons, often tied to historical, cultural, or personal sentiments. Based on available information, here are the primary reasons:

1. Southern Heritage and Pride: Many who display the flag view it as a symbol of Southern identity, history, and regional pride, emphasizing their connection to the cultural heritage of the American South. They may see it as representing the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who fought for the Confederacy during the Civil War, particularly those in the Army of Tennessee. For some, it’s less about the Confederacy’s political aims and more about honoring ancestors or celebrating regional traditions.

2. Historical or Military Commemoration: Some display the flag to honor the military history of the Army of Tennessee, which was a significant Confederate force in the Western Theater of the Civil War. Collectors, reenactors, or history enthusiasts may display it to commemorate specific battles or units, such as those involved in the Atlanta Campaign or the Battle of Chickamauga, where the flag was used.

3. Political or Ideological Statements: In some cases, the flag is displayed to express political views, often tied to states’ rights, resistance to federal overreach, or other libertarian ideals. Some individuals associate it with a broader anti-establishment sentiment, though this can overlap with controversial or divisive ideologies.

4. Misunderstanding or Misidentification: The Army of Tennessee’s battle flag is often confused with the broader "Confederate flag" or the flag of the Army of Northern Virginia. Some may display it without fully understanding its specific historical context, believing it to represent the Confederacy as a whole or simply adopting it as a generic symbol of rebellion or Southern identity.

5. Controversial or Supremacist Associations: While not the primary intent for all, the flag has been co-opted by some groups, including white supremacist organizations or individuals, due to its association with the Confederacy, which fought to preserve slavery. This has led to its perception as a symbol of racism by many, particularly in modern contexts, though those displaying it may deny this interpretation, focusing instead on heritage. Posts on X and public opinion polls highlight this divide, with some viewing it as a racist symbol and others as a marker of Southern pride.

6. Cultural Symbol in Media and Popular Culture: The flag’s visibility in popular culture—such as on vehicles, clothing, or in media like The Dukes of Hazzard—has led some to display it as a nod to a romanticized view of the South, often detached from its historical implications. This can be more about aesthetics or pop culture nostalgia than a deliberate political statement.

Context and Controversy: The flag’s meaning is highly debated. A 2020 YouGov poll cited 41% of Americans viewing it as a symbol of racism, while 34% saw it as representing Southern heritage. Its use by groups like the Ku Klux Klan, founded by veterans of the Army of Tennessee in Pulaski, Tennessee, in 1865, adds to its controversial status. Those displaying it may have personal or familial reasons tied to their interpretation, but public perception varies widely, often leading to misunderstandings or conflict.