America''s Songs

Before the "Star Spangled Banner" became America''s national anthem in 1931, another song filled that bill: "My Country ''Tis of Thee." This patriotic hymn, which celebrated America''s history and natural beauty, was written by Baptist minister Samuel Francis Smith in 1831. Since then, it has been beloved by millions of Americans. It even played an important role in the civil rights movement. This book introduces today''s schoolchildren to this important historical song using easy-to-read sheet music, vivid photographs, primary sources, and key facts, and glossaries.