JANUARY 26 “THIS WEEK IN THE MUSIC OF NONVIOLENT RESISTANCE”

This week in 1820 Harriet Tubman was born (January 29).  Harriet Tubman, an African-American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Union Spy, was the leader of the Underground Railroad.  The Underground Railroad was a network of antislavery activists and safe houses, allowing a path for slaves to the North, and ultimately their freedom.

During the time of the Underground Railroad songs were used to hide coded messages.  These messgaes would guide, lift morale and perseve the culture of blacks in America.

One song that was reportedly used during the Underground Railroad was “Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd.”  The song’s title refers to the start formation known as the Big Dipper, which contains the North Star.  In the song the line “Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd” is often interpreted as instructions to escaping slaves to travel north by following the North Star.

Another song with a secret meaning was “Now Let Me Fly” which references the biblical story of Ezekiel’s Wheels. The song talks mostly of a promised land. This song might have boosted the morale and spirit of the slaves, giving them hope that there was a place waiting that was better than where they were.

Watch this clip to learn more about the Music of the Underground Railroad.