Battle flag to be moved from state capitol

The South Carolina Legislature passed a bill early on Thursday to remove the Confederate battle flag from the state capitol grounds after an emotional 13-hour debate over the controversial banner.

The flag, which dates back to the 1861-65 American Civil War, stands for slavery and racism for many but is a symbol of Southern heritage for others.

The bill, already approved by the Senate, passed a third and final vote in the House of Representatives in the early hours of the morning by a margin of 94-20, and now goes to Governor Nikki Haley to be signed into law later in the day.