Voices of Combat: A Century of Liberty and War Songs, 1765-1865

by Kent A. Bowman

Overview

This study of American liberty and war songs is among the first to examine them in a historical and literary context and to focus almost exclusively on the lyrics. Unlike other works that are primarily songbooks, this book provides a fresh view of an important aspect of American culture and offers new insight into the thoughts and feelings of Americans during periods of crisis. Special attention is given to the songs that emerged from the early American wartime experiences, including those written before and during the Revolution, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, and the Civil War, with an emphasis on the similarities and differences in song themes, techniques and styles.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780313254086
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	05/14/1987
Series:	Contributions to the Study of Music and Dance , #10
Pages:	181
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

KENT A. BOWMAN, who teaches American history in Denton, Texas, has a special interest in the interrelationship of music, literature, art and history.

Table of Contents

Preface
Introduction
Fair Liberty's Call
Melodies of Battle
Heroes, Villains and Democrats
Star Spangled Melodies
Rough and Ready Singers
Old Tunes for a New War
Original Sounds
Conclusions and Observations
Appendix: Selected Song Lyrics
Bibliography
Index