Harry's Mad

CHAPTER 5: The Battle Hymn of the Republic

The Battle Hymn of the Republic is an American Anthem that has roots in the Civil War and earlier. It started as a song sung by Civil War soldiers, and made famous by the version crafted by poet Julia Ward Howe. Below learn more about John Brown, Julia Ward Howe, and The Battle Hymn of the Republic.

Listen to this NPR story about the history of The Battle Hymn of the Republic

How 'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic' Became Everybody's AnthemThe refrain — "Glory, glory, hallelujah" — shows up at labor protests, conservative rallies, church services and football games. It turns out the song, originally a war march, is flexible by design.

Read about abolitionist John Brown

Peet Seeger sings John Brown's Body

Read about Julia Ward Howe

The United States Army Field Band plays The Battle Hymn of the Republic

"Dimly there came to their ears 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic' played, correctly but very slowly, on the piano, while Harry's voice informed them that John Brown's Body lay a-mold'ring in the grave." (p. 37)