| After the French Revolution, conflict arose between France and England, and American relations with both countries became strained, because American leaders differed in their sympathies with these nations. As a result, France and the United States were on the verge of war in the spring of 1798. To try to unify the Nation, Joseph Hopkinson (son of Francis Hopkinson, composer and signer of the Declaration of Independence) wrote the words of Hail, Columbia! and set them to the tone of The President's March, said to have been composed by Philip Phile as Washington's inaugural march. The new song called for all Americans to support George Washington, who had been recalled from retirement by President John Adams to resume his position as Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy. The song did help to unify the Nation and avert war; and it was long regarded in Europe as our National Anthem. -From the Album Cover Hail Columbia, happy land! Hail, ye heroes, heav'n-born band, Who fought and bled in freedom's cause, Who fought and bled in freedom's cause, And when the storm of war was gone Enjoy'd the peace your valor won. Let independence be our boast, Ever mindful what it cost; Ever grateful for the prize, Let its altar reach the skies. Chorus Firm, united let us be, Rallying round our liberty, As a band of brothers joined, Peace and safety we shall find. Sound, sound the trump of fame, Let Washington's great name Ring through the world with loud applause, Ring through the world ... |
