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Although not musically-inclined himself,
George Washington was a lover of good music. He once exclaimed "Nothing
is more agreeable, and ornamental, than good music." Although patriotic music has been around since the birth of our country, many of our most popular patriotic songs like "Johnny Comes Marching Home Again" were
not composed until after Washington’s death in 1799. We decided to have some fun and put together an “imagined” list of what we think would’ve been our 1st President’s favorite patriotic songs (If he had heard them).
When it comes to patriotic songs, these few stand out above the rest. From "The
Star-Spangled Banner" to "God Bless America", these patriotic
songs have become anthems for generations of Americans. At Schoolassemblies.net
we celebrate America's patriotism "loudly and proudly" with our assembly, SPIRIT OF AMERICA. During the show, students are introduced to some of the most popular patriotic songs of all time.
Here are some interesting facts about each and some reasons why Washington might’ve liked them.
1. "The
Star-Spangled Banner" by Francis Scott Key
"The Star-Spangled Banner" was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. The lyrics of the song describe the flag of the United States of America during the War of 1812. The
song has been designated as the national anthem of the United States since
1931. "The Star-Spangled Banner" is typically played at patriotic
events, such as sporting events and patriotic holidays.
The song is also
frequently sung by school children in America. The anthem evokes feelings of pride and patriotism
in Americans and gives kids a good reason to salute our grand old flag.
2. "God
Bless America" by Irving Berlin
The song was first released in1938, and it quickly became a popular choice for patriotic occasions. The lyrics express a desire for God to bless America, and they also contain a sense of hope and pride in the nation.
Patriotic music often includes themes of
liberty and justice, and it often celebrates the country's natural beauty.
patriotic songs are typically upbeat and optimistic, and they often make use of
patriotic symbols like the flag or the bald eagle. Patriotic music is a genre
that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and it can be a powerful way to show
love for one's country. The song has been recorded by many different artists,
including Kate Smith, who gave the song its most famous performance. "God
Bless America" is a patriotic anthem that truly celebrates the spirit of
America.
3. "America the Beautiful" by Katharine Lee Bates
"America the Beautiful" a patriotic favorite was written by Katharine Lee Bates in
1895, the song celebrates the beauty of the American landscape.
The lyrics are often quoted at patriotic events, and the melody is played regularly on Independence
Day. "America the Beautiful" has also been adopted as an unofficial anthem by a number of organizations, including the National Park Service and Veterans of Foreign Wars. In 2010, Congress even passed a resolution recognizing the song as "a symbol of American freedom and liberty." Given its status as a national treasure, it's no surprise that "America the Beautiful" is often flown alongside the flag at flag-raising ceremonies. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or singing along with familiar words, there's no mistaking the power of this beautiful song.
4. Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa
In 1896, John Phillips Sousa, one of America's most prolific military march composers wrote "The Stars and Stripes Forever," which quickly became one of the most popular
patriotic songs in America.
It was a cold February day in 1897 when John Phillip Sousa took the stage at Willard Hall in Washington, D.C. to perform his new composition, "The Stars and Stripes Forever." The crowd was immediately enchanted by the stirring melody and patriotic lyrics, and Sousa was greeted with a standing ovation. In the years since, it has become an American classic, known and loved by generations of patriotic Americans. Every 4th of July, millions of people
across the country listen to this patriotic march as they celebrate our
nation's birthday. And every time we hear those familiar notes, we are reminded
of the courageous men and women who have fought to defend our freedoms. America
is truly a land of liberty and justice for all - thanks in part to "The
Stars and Stripes Forever." The patriotic spirit of Sousa's music
continues to resonate with audiences today. Every Fourth of July, its played by bands across the country, helping
to bring people together in a shared display of patriotism, all thanks to John
Phillip Sousa!
5. Yankee Doodle
This is the one song on our list that George Washington actually did know!
Yankee Doodle dates back to the time of the Revolutionary War, when it
was used as a marching tune by the Continental Army.
The song was originally sung by British troops to mock the American Colonists. However, theColonists quickly embraced the song and it became a rallying cry for the Patriots. Today, Yankee Doodle is still sung by patriotic Americans of all
ages. It is a simple song with over 100 verses that celebrates the United
States and its people. The lyrics tell the story of a patriotic American who is
proud to be part of his country. The chorus includes the phrase "Yankee
Doodle went to town / Riding on a pony / He stuck a feather in his cap / And
called it macaroni." Yankee Doodle is a beloved American song that will
continue to be sung for generations to come.
The United States has a long and proud history of patriotic music that entertains and inspires millions of people every year. This list is limited to five songs but there are so many other patriotic tunes that give us all a sense of belonging and remind us
why we love our country so much. Among these are "This Land is Your Land," "My Country 'Tis of Thee and of course, the Lee Greenwood hit, "God Bless the USA." I hope you’ve enjoyed this look at some of the most popular patriotic tunes over the years.
