12 Song Playlist for Uncle Tom’s Cabin By Harriet Beecher Stowe

1. "We Shall Overcome" by Mahalia Jackson

This gospel anthem embodies the characters' resilient spirit, their collective yearning for justice
and the ultimate overcoming of adversity and I heard it recently so it came to mind first.

2. "Freedom" by Pharrell Williams

Pharrell's upbeat anthem encapsulates the characters' longing for freedom and echoes their
persistent hope for a brighter, liberated future.

3. "Lean On Me" by Bill Withers

Withers' soulful track speaks to the theme of mutual support and solidarity among characters,
providing a comforting reflection of their interconnected struggles.

4. "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong

Armstrong's classic, though seemingly optimistic, adds a layer of poignancy as it serves as a
stark contrast to the harsh realities depicted in the book, emphasizing the beauty that exists
even in the face of adversity.

5. "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King

King's timeless ballad mirrors the strong bonds formed among characters, emphasizing the
importance of companionship and support during tumultuous times.

6. "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" by Lauryn Hill

Hill's rendition of this spiritual classic captures the characters' reliance on faith, providing solace
and a sense of assurance amid difficult circumstances.

7. "Imagine" by John Lennon

Lennon's utopian vision invites reflection on the characters' dreams of a just and unified society,
serving as a poignant contrast to the divisive world they navigate.

8. "Blowin' in the Wind" by Peter, Paul, and Mary

This gentle yet powerful protest song resonates with the characters' unanswered questions
about freedom and equality, reflecting the pervasive uncertainty they face.

9. "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Kamakawiwo'ole's rendition of this classic provides a moment of escapism, offering characters a
brief respite and a dream of a better world beyond their current struggles.

10. "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke

Cooke's soulful ballad encapsulates the characters' anticipation of positive change, reflecting
their enduring optimism and hope for a brighter future.

11. "I Can See Clearly Now" by Johnny Nash

Nash's upbeat tune mirrors the characters' hopeful outlook, projecting a vision of clarity and
resolution amidst their challenges.

12. "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers

Withers' optimistic track serves as a celebration of the characters' resilience and strength,
reinforcing the understanding that each day, despite hardships, can be embraced with positivity.

It helps that most of the artist’s are black and American making them much more likely to
identify with the atrocities of slavery than I would. This connection would deepen the connection
to the actual book because Stowe wanted to be an advocate for people who were oppressed,
and after emancipation African Americans increasingly turned to the music above in order to
relieve themselves of the effects of the oppression they dealt with. The songs all resonate with
the ideas of freedom and justice Stowe represented in the story, this is the kind of precedent she
set through her writing.