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The Battle Hymn of the Progressive Christian
Take a cue from Julia Ward Howe — and from the black Methodists who inspired the tune.
As much as I may be embarrassed for my country at the moment, I still have a soft spot for old American patriotic songs. The Battle Hymn of the Republic is one of those songs. Its march-like texture and rousing instrumental serves as a call to action for Americans and Christians who care about justice and as a nod to the songs that military bands played. It seems that I am not the only one who is fond of this abolitionist anthem because it has been played, parodied, and propped up during pivotal historical events. Having origins as a mere ditty, the Battle Hymn has come to inspire and unite Americans from all walks of life. Although the Battle Hymn is not America’s national anthem, it sure captures the American spirit.
In light of George Floyd’s death, this song’s origins are more relevant than ever. Julia Ward Howe penned the lyrics to the tune of John Brown’s Body, a gruesome ditty that memorialized the radical abolitionist John Brown…
