“God Bless America,” a song synonymous with American patriotism, boasts a history as compelling as its melody. Penned by the legendary Irving Berlin, the journey of this iconic song from its initial conception to its widespread acclaim is a testament to both the composer’s artistry and the evolving spirit of a nation. The origins of the Song God Bless America are deeply rooted in a specific moment in time, yet its message transcends generations.
Berlin himself recounted the song’s genesis in a 1954 letter to Abel Green, the editor of Variety. He explained that “God Bless America” was first written in 1918 at Camp Upton, intended as the grand finale for Yip, Yip, Yaphank, a musical revue staged by soldiers during World War I. Berlin vividly described the intended scene: as soldiers prepared to depart for overseas, clad in their helmets and overseas uniforms, they would march through the theater, out onto the street, and backstage to board a transport. As the lights dimmed, this transport, symbolically on wheels, would slowly move offstage, creating a deeply moving and emotional climax. However, Berlin felt that having soldiers sing “God Bless America” in this already poignant setting was “painting the lily,” an unnecessary addition that might detract from the scene’s inherent power. Therefore, the song was set aside. As Berlin noted, he always kept it “in back of my mind to use someday on the right occasion.”
That occasion arose nearly two decades later, in 1938. Berlin had traveled to London for the premiere of the film Alexander’s Ragtime Band. His visit coincided with a tense period in European history, Chamberlain’s visit to Hitler and the looming shadow of the Munich Pact. Returning home, Berlin felt compelled to capture the prevailing sentiment of the time in a song. He initially attempted a song titled “Thanks America,” but quickly discarded it, realizing it was too preachy and lacked musicality, dismissing it as a “bad editorial set to music.” It was then that he remembered “God Bless America.” Crucially, as Berlin emphasized, he “rewrote” it, underscoring that the 1938 version was not simply a rediscovered relic but a carefully revised and adapted piece for a new era and a different emotional landscape. This rewriting process is a vital part of the narrative of the song god bless america, highlighting its evolution and enduring relevance.
