State Historical Society of Iowa

"Stonewall Wilson" Song, 1916

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, Mortimer, Robert, National Music Publishing Co. : New York, 1916

Description

"Stonewall Wilson" is a song supporting the 1916 re-election campaign of President Woodrow Wilson. It depicts Wilson as a strong, dependable leader. The title of the song and characterization of Wilson draw on the legendary Confederate general Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, known for his bravery, tenacity, and military prowess. Jackson and his men played key roles in several major battles in the Civil War until his death by friendly fire in May 1863. Jackson and Wilson were both born in Virginia. Wilson would later win the election by defeating Supreme Court Justice Charles E. Hughes, the Republican candidate.

Transcript of "Stonewall Wilson" Song

Source Dependent Questions

  • Before reading the song, use only the cover to characterize President Woodrow Wilson. What evidence led you to your characterization?
  • After reading the song lyrics continue your characterization of Wilson. Has anything in your opinion changed? Which lines from the song support and/or challenge your original characterization?
  • Verse two refers to Wilson as "Stonewall Wilson." Given that World War I was raging across the Atlantic, why do you think this reference might have made sense to listeners?
  • Identify and list the passage in the third verse of the song that makes reference to former President Theodore Roosevelt's domestic program. Although Wilson won the 1912 election, he garnered only 42% of the popular vote and was helped by Roosevelt's Progressive Party candidacy, which split the nation's Republican Party vote. Why would the songwriter link the two?

Citation Information

"Stonewall Wilson," Mortimer, Robert, National Music Publishing Co. : New York, 1916. Courtesy of Library of Congress Courtesy of Library of Congress