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Department

History

Disciplines

Cultural History | English Language and Literature | United States History

Abstract

“The Star Spangled Banner” is one of the best known patriotic songs in the United States; however, most people do not know it originated as a poem during a much understudied, but highly influential time. “The Star Spangled Banner” is one of several poems that helped build unity in America during and after the War of 1812. This project analyzes early 19th century American poetry and the influence it had on building foundational ideologies of American nationalism. It focuses on the role poetry played in creating nationalistic myths by using primary texts to explore and analyze the different themes, words, and styles used to convey poetry to the populace between 1812 and 1829. It also shows ideas, beliefs, and social and political ideologies prevalent among those with the influence to get their voices heard. The ideas that are most prevalent in the American nationalistic myth are those of valor, gallantry, pride, perseverance, godly endeavor, liberty, duty, roughness, and steadfastness. This study helps provide a general understanding of how national unity is built in fledgling countries.

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Faculty Mentor

Dr. David Walker and Dr. Raymond Krohn