Chapter 13: A Growing Sense of Nationhood Completed Notes

Early American Music Literature

Early American Music
• America’s national identity was also expressed through music.
• Until the 1800’s music could be heard mostly in church.
In the North orchestras played classical music from Europe during elegant dance parties.
• As demand for popular songs grew, composers responded with patriotic songs such as
“America,” and “My country, ‘tis of Thee.
• In the South, slaves combine the hymns of white churchgoers with African music styles to create
spirituals.
• White Southerners mimicked black music and put on racist shows known as minstrel shows.

Early American Literature

• American writers began to use uniquely American subjects and settings.

• In both subject matter and style writers encouraged the growth of a national identity.
• In particular, American writers promoted the myth of rugged individualism.