Why were Spirituals Sung?
During and after slavery, workers would sing. The songs could coordinate to what job the slaves were doing at the time.
Such songs could represent personal feelings, and could also be used for cheering each other up.
Coded Songs
In Wade in the Water
Harriet Tubman used the song “Wade in the Water” to tell slaves to get into the water to avoid being seen and make it to the north.
Steal Away
This song communicates that the person singing it is planning to escape.
Songs were coded so the slaves could communicate messages to each other without there masters knowing what they were saying.
Slave Spirituals
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Sources
- http://www.negrospirituals.com/history.htm
- http://www.negrospirituals.com/news-song/
- http://www.spiritualsproject.org/sweetchariot/Freedom/coded.php
Books
- "Songs and Stories of the Civil War
By: Jerry Silverman
- Amazing Grace: The Story of the Hymn
By: Linda Granfield
Recreational Songs
Soldier's Joy (Instrumental)
Unknown
Shortnin' Bread
Paul Chaplin
Rosey
Unknown
Religious Songs
Do, Lord, Remember Me
By: Unknown
Meet me in Jerusalem
By: Unknown
House Done Built Without Hands
By: Jimmie Strothers & Joe Lee
Look Down That Long, Lonesome Road
By: Tim O'Brien
Work Songs
Arwhoolie (Cornfield holler)
By: Thomas J. Marshall
Quittin' Time Song 2
By: Samuel Brooks
Mealtime Call
By: Thomas Marshall
Types of Spirituals
Spirituals are split into three category's
- Religious
- Recreational
- Work
What Were the Most Common Songs Sang by Slaves?
Swing Low Sweet Chariot
By: Wallis Willis
Oh Happy Day
By: Phillip Doddridge
Amazing Grace
By: John Newton
We Shall Overcome
By: Rev. Charles Tindley