What is your favorite patriotic song, and when did you last hear it? Red, White, and Blue, this one's for you, honest, you're a Grand Old Flag! That American patriotic song, a testament to our nation's history, was penned by George M. Cohan. It's in good company with other patriotic songs by many famous American composers, each one a proud chapter in our musical heritage.
Growing up in the 1950s, I remember a time of growth and prosperity in the USA, which created and lifted many Americans into the middle class after the close of WWII. Patriotic music was played at many venues, especially sports events and summer concerts across America when there was a bandstand in almost every small-town park and town square, playing songs like Stars & Stripes Forever by John Phillip Sousa, and America by Samuel F. Smith.
During the Civil War, Battle Hymn of the Republic by Julia Ward Howe was not to be outdone by Dixie by Daniel D. Emmett that was reportedly, liked by even President Lincoln, who thought it was a catchy tune.
During World War I, Yankee Doodle Dandy by George M. Cohan was popular with the American Doughboys. Patriot folk songs from the 40s such as Woodie Guthrie's This Land is Your Land became widely sung, especially around campfires. God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood became a symbol after 9-11, reminding us of the strength and unity of our nation even in the face of adversity. Patriotic tunes continue to inspire and unite us, carrying forward a tradition of American patriotism.
As you have experienced many 4ths of July in your life, think back to those occasions with friends, family, and loved ones when there were hot dogs sizzling and cold watermelon, the sky was a blaze with fireworks and sparklers and it was the best of times. Happy 4th of July!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's memories of 1950s America really ring true for so many folks I talk with. That post-war prosperity he mentions actually laid the foundation for many of today's retirement benefits. Social Security expanded significantly during that era, and employer-sponsored pension plans became common for the first time. If you're wondering "how did people in the 1950s save for retirement compared to today," the answer is they had more defined benefit pensions, but today's retirees have more control with 401(k) plans and Individual Retirement Accounts.
Those summer bandstand concerts David remembers were often funded by community bonds and local taxes, much like how many Arizona cities today fund senior centers and community programs. If you're retired and looking for that same sense of community, check out local senior centers or veteran organizations that still host patriotic music events, especially around Memorial Day and Independence Day.
Music has this wonderful way of connecting us to our memories and values, and that connection becomes even more important in retirement when we have time to reflect on what matters most.