A Singing Teacher’s History Lesson for America

Listening to the early country hit ‘The Battle of New Orleans’ is a fun way to learn about history.

A detail from "Battle of New Orleans," 1890, by Kurz & Allison. Library of Congress. Public Domain

The memorable opening verse to one of country music’s unique songs honors an obscure war.

In 1814 we took a little trip Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip’ We took a little bacon and we took a little beans And we caught the bloody British in the town of New Orleans