Can someone please help me with this? Songs have strong emotional effects on people. Almost every culture in the world includes music. Some biologists even believe that humans hummed or sang music even before they developed the ability to speak.

As you learned in this lesson, patriotic songs were an important part of American culture in the early 19th century. Even in modern times, stirring music plays a significant role in our culture. In the early morning of September 11, 2001, the worst terrorist attack in US history unfolded. Terrorists hijacked American passenger jets. One by one, the hijacked airliners began crashing into targets. Millions of people witnessed the shocking events on television. They saw images of towering buildings falling and smoke rising over New York City. Then the Pentagon was burning in Washington, DC. Rumors flew of another jet crashing in a Pennsylvania field. Confusion and fear gripped the entire nation.

Just hours after the attacks, about 150 members of Congress gathered on the steps of the US Capitol Building. The US military had orders to evacuate them. The speaker of the House gave a short speech to encourage the American people. When he finished, no one knew what else to say. The atmosphere was tense and uncertain. Then, from among the assembled congresspersons, a voice rose. Another voice joined it, then another…until 150 voices were united in song. The United States Congress sang “God Bless America” loud and strong. This emotional display of patriotism and unity sent a powerful message to Americans. It also moved people around the world. An Australian newspaper columnist wrote, “They stood shaken and tearful on the steps of the Capitol, their love of nation and all that it symbolizes plain for the world to see.”

Where do you normally hear patriotic songs sung today? What place do such songs have in American society? What is their use or purpose? Do you think Americans today care as much about patriotism? Why or why not?