How Did Music Affect The Civil War

Music can have severe implications on life, especially during times of war, and the Civil War era is no exception. Anterior to Fort Sumter in South Carolina, enslaved African Americans were singing songs in the fields about freedom and living without the bonds of slavery. Abolitionists and slavery supporters alike produced and sang songs to bring indecisive members of the public to their side. Indeed, there were many quabbles over slavery, and ever since the Three-Fifths Compromise of 1787, music had been affecting the way many people thought and voiced their opinions on slavery. Music is evident in every aspect of life- including war; therefore, music contributed a major factor to the American Civil War- in psychological influence, battle, and public life. Psychology and the way we think can seriously influence perceptions of news and reactions to outcomes. Many times, songs help people convince themselves and put faith in their cause (Civil War Music, God Save the South). In the South, the song “God Save the South” helped people back their cause during times of strife and struggle, with the lyrics
“God made the right stronger than might, / Millions would trample us down in their pride. / Lay Thou …show more content…
In Lincoln and the Music of the Civil War, Kenneth A. Bernard writes “In camp and hospital they sang- sentimental songs and ballads, comic songs and patriotic numbers- the songs were better than rations and medicine. (Lincoln and the Music of the Civil War)” This shows how music gives people the motivation not only to endure, but to unite with neighbors in defiance of the enemy. Music provides a connection to the cause, and also to their brethren who are off fighting. Many songs outline praises and mournings after battles and events. In these ways, music can have a lasting effect on the mindset of soldiers and