John Brown's Body
With "Dixie" being the unofficial anthem of the Confederacy, the song most strongly identified with the Union was "John Brown's Body."
John BrownOrigins of the lyrics to "John Brown's Body" can be traced to a glee club that included a singer named John Brown.
- Lyrics were created to reflect the actions of an abolitionist, who was also named John Brown.
In 1862, new lyrics to the tune became popularized by Julia Howe, an abolitionist and poet.
"John Brown's Body" was used for marches, battles and abolitionist movements.
Lyrics were recognized as "having a germ of inspiration."
- These new lyrics became known as "The Battle Hymn of the Republic."
"John Brown's Body" was used for marches, battles and abolitionist movements.
Lyrics were recognized as "having a germ of inspiration."
- "He's gone to be a soldier of the lord" emphasizes the idea that the Union is doing God's work.
- This inspired soldiers because they are not only fighting for the Union, but also for God.