This may be far worse than than we thought
Why aren't they using the term "insurgent" anymore?
Insurgent, other than its weakened current use, is a very important LEGAL designation, in regard to international law.
example in my state.
The great state of Delaware decides to revolt, picking up rifles and going ape-shit, all the while listening to Twisted Sister's "we're not gonna take it". They didn't have a plan (other than stomping mudholes), or offer protection to the populace, or services, and they have no control of any areas within the state as far as who comes and goes.
This is an official insurgency.
By international law, no other country can offer aid or trade with Delaware. And, the other 49 states are within their rights to try and lay-the-smack-down. But, the maniacal men and women of the diamond state kept this insurgency going, the "nasty 49" unable to stop them.
The Delaware insurgency whoops ass on the regular, soon controlling who comes and goes within its borders. It then sets up a legal system, a simple one dealing with the defendant's weight relative to a pumpkin, and operates the water treatment plant--thereby providing service to those within the borders. It is no longer the Delaware Insurgency.
The insurgency has grown, into a Rebellion.
The Delaware Rebellion has a different standing in the world. It can legally trade with other nations, able to accept aid in the form of goods and arms. The Delaware Rebellion sets up a trade deal with Jamaica, securing a marijuana supply that keeps the Delaware Rebellion going, growing, and hungry. Now, glassy-eyed and kickin' butt, the Delaware rebellion sets up an official government, taking its first step toward becoming a recognized soveriegn nation.
I am very concerned about the attempt recently to not call the "insurgency" in Iraq by its name. More importantly, its real name, "the Sunni Insurgency". How strong has it become that we cannot call it by its name? How close are they to becoming a rebellion? Are they a rebellion now?
Changing the perception through language is a Republican hallmark. They do it when things are going horribly wrong.
This sounds silly, but when the Republicans start using new words, it scares the crap outta me.