Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics is an American spiritual song from the 19th century. It is believed that the song was created by Harriet Tubman, a former slave who was instrumental in the Underground Railroad. The song was first published in a book titled "Songs of the Underground Railroad" in 1888. The song is about the Underground Railroad, a secret network of people and places that helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom. The song gave directions on how to follow the Drinking Gourd, which is the Big Dipper constellation in the night sky. The song was used as a secret code between slaves, telling them which direction to go and which places to avoid. It is believed that the song helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom.
Origins of the Song
The origins of the song are not known, but it is believed to have been created by Harriet Tubman in the early 19th century. Tubman was a former slave who was instrumental in the Underground Railroad. She is known for her courage and determination and is credited with leading hundreds of slaves to freedom. She is also known for her spirituals, which she used to communicate with other slaves. Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics is believed to be one of the songs she wrote.
Meaning of the Song
The song is a spiritual that tells the story of the Underground Railroad and how it helped slaves escape to freedom. The song gives directions on how to follow the Big Dipper constellation, which is also known as the Drinking Gourd. The song also tells slaves which places to avoid and which directions to go. The song was a secret code between slaves, telling them which places to avoid and which directions to go. The song was also believed to have been sung by slaves to keep their spirits up and give them hope.
Impact on American History
Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics had a significant impact on American history. The song was used as an important tool in the Underground Railroad and helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom. The song was also an important piece of African American culture and is still sung today. It is a reminder of the struggles and hardships that African Americans endured during slavery and a testament to the courage and determination of those who escaped to freedom. Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics is an important part of American history and has remained an inspirational song for generations.
Popularity of the Song
Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics has remained popular over the years and has been recorded by many artists. It has been featured in books, movies, and television shows. The song has become a symbol of the Underground Railroad and is still sung today. It is a reminder of the struggles and hardships that African Americans endured during slavery and a testament to the courage and determination of those who escaped to freedom.
Contemporary Versions of the Song
Today, there are many contemporary versions of Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics. These versions often add a modern twist to the song and reflect the changing times. Some versions add a rap or hip-hop beat, while others add a gospel twist. These versions are often used in schools and churches to teach about the Underground Railroad and the struggles of African Americans during slavery. They are also a reminder of the courage and determination of those who escaped to freedom.
Conclusion
Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics is an important part of American history and has remained an inspirational song for generations. The song was used as an important tool in the Underground Railroad and helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom. Today, there are many contemporary versions of the song that add a modern twist and reflect the changing times. Follow the Drinking Gourd lyrics is a reminder of the struggles and hardships of African Americans during slavery and a testament to the courage and determination of those who escaped to freedom.
