“The Battle-Cry of Freedom” with Confederate Lyrics

Sheet Music

Historical Era:

ERA 5: Civil War and Reconstruction (1850-1877)

Year Created: 1864

Historical Theme:

Identity The Civil War Slavery

Collection:

Why The Civil War Still Matters, by James McPherson

Description:

The original lyrics of “The Battle Cry of Freedom” were written by George Root and supported the Union. Composer H.L. Schreiner and lyricist W. H. Barnes adapted the song for the Confederacy. In this song, the writer sings about setting the South free from the North, “down with the eagle and up with the cross.”

Source: “Sheet Music for the Song Battle Cry of Freedom with Confederate Lyrics.” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, catalog.archives.gov/id/3819352. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Link to content:

https://catalog.archives.gov/id/3819352