An analysis of political culture of united states through its national anthem

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING HO CHI MINH CITY UNIVERSITY OF LAW GRADUATION THESIS B.A DEGREE IN ENGLISH Major: Legal English An Analysis of Political Culture of United States Through Its National Anthem Supervisor: Phạm Thị Thùy Dung Student: Nguyễn Yến Nhi Student ID: 1952202010042 Class: LE44B Ho Chi Minh city, 2023 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING HO CHI MINH CITY UNIVERSITY OF LAW GRADUATION THESIS B.A DEGREE IN ENGLISH Major: Legal English An Analysis of Political Culture of United States Through Its National Anthem Supervisor: Phạm Thị Thùy Dung Student: Nguyễn Yến Nhi Student ID: 1952202010042 Class: LE44B Ho Chi Minh city, 2023 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT To complete this thesis I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to the teachers of the Faculty of Foreign Languages and Legal Studies at Ho Chi Minh City University of Law for providing me with valuable opportunities to learn, practice, and expand my knowledge and skills I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my supervisor, Pham Thi Thuy Dung, for her guidance, supervision, and valuable advice throughout the research process Her support has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and ensuring the successful completion of the thesis Due to my limited knowledge and lack of practical experience, the thesis content is difficult to avoid shortcomings I look forward to receiving more advice and instruction from you Finally, I would like to wish you all the best of health and success in your work Best regards LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS S.No ABBREVIATIONS CDA EXPANSION Critical Discourse Analysis TABLE OF CONTENT ABSTRACTS I INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the study 1.2 Aim of the study .4 1.3 Research questions 1.4 Significance of the study 1.5 Scope of the study 1.6 Outline of the thesis II LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Political culture 2.1.1 Definition 2.1.2 Related literature .8 2.2 National identity .9 2.2.1 Definition 2.2.2 Related literature .10 In summary 11 2.3 Political discourse 14 2.3.1 Definition 14 2.3.2 Related literature .15 III METHODOLOGY 15 3.1 Research questions 15 3.1.1 In what ways does the US national anthem reflect and shape American political culture? 16 3.1.2 How does the national anthem promote cross-cultural communication and understanding, particularly among language learners? 16 3.2 Design and context of the Study .17 3.2.1 Qualitative research design 17 3.2.2 Contextual significance 17 3.3 Research instruments 18 3.3.1 Primary sources .18 3.3.2 Secondary sources 18 3.3.3 Relevant literature 19 3.3.4 Theoretical basis 20 3.4 Analytical framework .20 3.4.1 Semiotic Theory 21 3.4.2 Critical Discourse Analysis .21 3.4.3 Analysis procedure 22 3.4.3.1 Semiotic Analysis 22 3.4.3.2 Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) 23 IV FINDINGS 24 4.1 Analysis of data 24 4.2 Findings and discussion 25 4.2.1 Findings and results 25 4.2.1.1 In what ways does the US national anthem reflect and shape American political culture? 25 4.2.1.2 How does the national anthem promote cross-cultural communication and understanding, particularly among language learners? 31 Summary 34 4.2.2 Discussion 35 4.2.2.1 Interpretation of Findings 35 4.2.2.1.1 Discuss the implications of the findings for understanding American national identity and political culture 35 4.2.2.1.2 Challenging existing theories on national symbols and political discourse 38 In summary 41 4.3 Limitations and suggestions for future research 42 CONCLUSION .44 REFERENCES 46 ABSTRACTS "The Star-Spangled Banner" has served as the official national anthem of the United States since 1931, holding significant cultural and symbolic importance in American society This study delves into the intricate history and meaning of the anthem, which was composed during the War of 1812 and subsequently embraced by diverse groups and movements throughout American history By closely examining the lyrics and symbolism embedded within "The Star-Spangled Banner," the researcher aims to uncover valuable insights into the political culture of the United States, as well as the fundamental values and beliefs that shape its national identity This study employs a comprehensive analysis of the lyrics and symbolism present in "The Star-Spangled Banner" to gain a deeper understanding of its significance within American political culture The researcher utilizes textual analysis techniques to examine the song's historical context, linguistic elements, and cultural symbolism By delving into these aspects, the study seeks to uncover the inherent messages and meanings conveyed by the anthem and their implications for American national identity and political culture The analysis of "The Star-Spangled Banner" reveals profound insights into American political culture It reveals the deep-rooted sense of collective identity among Americans, emphasizing national unity and pride The celebration of freedom and bravery in the anthem underscores the cherished values within American political culture, highlighting the ideals of liberty, courage, and unity Moreover, the anthem's promotion of individualism and democracy aligns with the core principles of American political ideology, emphasizing the significance of individual freedom, selfdetermination, and the pursuit of happiness The findings of this study have significant implications for understanding American national identity and political culture Firstly, the emphasis on national unity and pride in "The Star-Spangled Banner" underscores the strong collective identity shared by Americans, rooted in cherished values such as liberty, courage, and unity Secondly, the anthem's promotion of individualism and democracy reaffirms the fundamental principles of American political ideology, highlighting the importance of personal freedoms and the belief in self-determination However, the controversy surrounding the third stanza challenges the notion of national symbols as unifying forces, demanding a more nuanced understanding of their complex and potentially divisive nature The research also challenges existing theories on political discourse by emphasizing the significance of historical context, cultural symbolism, and linguistic accessibility in analyzing national symbols By shedding light on the complex relationship between "The Star-Spangled Banner," American political culture, and cross-cultural communication, this study contributes new knowledge to the field The analysis of the anthem's lyrics and symbolism broadens our understanding of its role in shaping American political culture, highlighting the limitations of a monolithic understanding of national identity The study recommends further research on the experiences of marginalized communities, the reception and interpretation of the anthem among different cultural groups, and the impact of national symbols on social cohesion By considering diverse narratives and experiences, the study can foster a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of American national identity and political culture I INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the study The background of this study is rooted in the historical events and social context that have shaped American society and political culture The United States, as a nation, has a rich history marked by significant moments that have influenced its identity and values From the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, the country has experienced various social and political movements that have shaped its cultural landscape One of the enduring symbols of American identity is the US national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." Written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812, the anthem holds a prominent place in American culture and is performed at numerous national events and sporting occasions Its lyrics evoke themes of patriotism, freedom, and resilience, and it has become a powerful symbol of American nationalism However, the national anthem and its significance have not been without controversy In recent years, debates have emerged surrounding its historical context and its relevance in a diverse and multicultural society Some argue that the anthem's lyrics and symbolism may exclude certain groups and fail to represent the full spectrum of American identity These discussions have sparked broader conversations about the role of national symbols in shaping political culture and the need for inclusive representation Against this backdrop, this study seeks to delve into the ways in which the US national anthem reflects and shapes American political culture By analyzing the symbolism, historical context, and reception of the anthem, the research will provide a nuanced understanding of its role in constructing and reinforcing American identity Moreover, in an increasingly globalized world, where cross-cultural communication and understanding are paramount, this study also explores how the national anthem can be used as a cultural artifact to promote intercultural dialogue, particularly among English language learners By examining the anthem's potential to foster cross-cultural understanding and communication, the research contributes practical insights to educators and researchers in the field of language and culture instruction 1.2 Aim of the study The aim of this research is to conduct a detailed analysis of the US national anthem's impact on American political culture The study seeks to contribute to the academic literature by exploring the complex relationship between music, language, and political identity within the American context Additionally, this research will provide a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that underlie American society, particularly for English language students Through a comprehensive analysis of the national anthem and its associated meanings, this study strives to help English language learners gain a better grasp of the cultural and political forces that shape American society Ultimately, the goal of this research is to make a significant contribution to the scholarship on the political culture of the United States By providing new insights into the role that music and language play in shaping American identity and politics, this study aims to broaden our understanding of the cultural and political dynamics that have shaped American society over time Through a close analysis of the symbolism and meaning of the US national anthem, this research hopes to deepen our understanding of the complex interplay between language, music, and politics in American culture 1.3 Research questions This study investigates the role of the US national anthem in reflecting and shaping American political culture, and to explore how this artifact can be utilized to enhance cross-cultural understanding and communication The first research question seeks to examine the ways in which the national anthem reflects and shapes American political culture Through a comprehensive analysis of the cultural symbolism, identity and the role of the national anthem, this study will gain insights into the ways in which this artifact reflects and shapes American values, beliefs, and political identity The national anthem has been a symbol of American patriotism since its inception in 1814, and its lyrics have undergone revisions language barriers, and foster a more inclusive and interconnected global community The national anthem acts as a gateway to explore the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and promotes cultural exchange and understanding among language learners 4.2.2 Discussion 4.2.2.1 Interpretation of Findings 4.2.2.1.1 Discuss the implications of the findings for understanding American national identity and political culture The findings regarding the ways in which the US national anthem reflects and shapes American political culture have significant implications for understanding American national identity and political culture The Emphasis on National Unity and Freedom in the American National Anthem The anthem's emphasis on national unity and pride highlights the deep-rooted sense of collective identity among Americans The celebration of freedom and bravery in the anthem underscores the values that are highly cherished in American political culture This suggests that American national identity is closely tied to the ideals of liberty, courage, and unity The main focus of the national anthem is national unity which reflects the belief that Americans are bound together by a shared set of values and a common purpose It reinforces the notion that despite the diversity and differences within American society, there is a unifying force that brings people together This understanding of national identity is crucial for maintaining social cohesion and fostering a sense of belonging among citizens It is worth noting that the anthem's emphasis on freedom and bravery aligns with the core principles of American political culture Freedom is a fundamental value in American society, deeply ingrained in the nation's history and enshrined in its founding documents The anthem's celebration of freedom serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made to secure and protect individual liberties It reinforces the idea that freedom is a cherished value worth defending and that bravery is necessary to uphold and preserve it 35 The Promotion of Individualism and Democracy in the American National Anthem The anthem's promotion of individualism and democracy aligns with the core principles of American political ideology The focus on individual freedom and selfdetermination reflects the belief in personal liberties and the pursuit of happiness, which are integral to American political culture This reaffirms the notion that individualism and democracy are fundamental aspects of American national identity The anthem's celebration of individual freedom resonates with the deeply ingrained belief in personal liberties that underpin American political ideology Individualism is a central belief of American society, emphasizing the importance of individual rights, autonomy, and self-reliance The anthem's emphasis on individual freedom serves as a reminder of the opportunities and possibilities that exist for individuals in American society It reinforces the idea that every citizen has the right to pursue their own aspirations and make choices that shape their own lives Furthermore, the anthem's promotion of self-determination aligns with the belief in the pursuit of happiness, a key component of American political culture The pursuit of happiness encompasses the idea that individuals have the freedom to define their own paths and make choices that lead to personal fulfillment and well-being This principle reflects the belief that individuals have the agency and autonomy to shape their own destinies, contributing to the overall fabric of American society The anthem's emphasis on individualism and democracy also reflects the broader political ideology of the United States Democracy is a foundational principle of American political culture, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation, representation, and the protection of individual rights The anthem's promotion of individualism and self-determination aligns with the democratic ideals of equality, fairness, and the empowerment of individuals within the political system The Complexities of the American National Anthem It is important to acknowledge the complexities of race and identity that are intertwined with the national anthem The presence of the third stanza, which references 36 slavery, raises questions about the inclusivity and representation within the anthem The omission of this stanza in many performances of the anthem has been criticized for neglecting the struggles and contributions of marginalized communities, particularly African Americans This highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of American national identity that encompasses diverse experiences and histories The implications of these findings for understanding American political culture are twofold On one hand, they reinforce the narrative of American exceptionalism and the belief in the nation's destiny as a beacon of freedom and democracy The anthem's celebration of freedom, bravery, and the endurance of the American flag aligns with the perception of the United States as a unique and exceptional nation This suggests that American political culture is shaped by a sense of national pride and the belief in American exceptionalism On the other hand, the findings also raise questions about the inclusivity and representation within American political culture The controversy surrounding the third stanza highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing historical injustices and fostering a more inclusive national identity It calls for a critical examination of the narratives and symbols that shape American political culture and a recognition of the diverse experiences and contributions of marginalized communities Furthermore, these findings challenge existing theories and literature on national symbols and political discourse The inclusion of the anthem's historical context and cultural symbolism expands our understanding of the anthem as a complex cultural artifact that reflects and shapes political culture It highlights the need to consider multiple dimensions, such as historical events, linguistic accessibility, and cultural symbolism, when analyzing the impact of national symbols on political culture These findings call for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of American national identity and political culture, one that embraces diversity, acknowledges historical struggles, and fosters a sense of unity and belonging among all citizens Reflecting on the challenges posed to existing theories and literature on national symbols and political discourse by the findings of the US national anthem's reflection 37 and shaping of American political culture, it is evident that the anthem's multifaceted nature demands a reexamination and expansion of current frameworks 4.2.2.1.2 Challenging existing theories on national symbols and political discourse The Notion of National Symbols as Unifying Forces One of the main challenges relates to the notion of national symbols as unifying forces Traditional theories often emphasize the role of national symbols in fostering a shared sense of identity and promoting social cohesion However, the controversy surrounding the national anthem's third stanza, with its reference to slavery, exposes the limitations of this perspective It reveals that national symbols can be sources of contention and exclusion, particularly when they neglect or overshadow marginalized narratives The controversy surrounding the third stanza of the national anthem challenges the assumption that national symbols inherently unite a diverse citizenry It highlights the fact that national symbols are not neutral, but rather reflect the perspectives and experiences of dominant groups within society By acknowledging the historical injustices associated with slavery, the controversy reveals how national symbols can perpetuate exclusionary narratives and reinforce power imbalances It calls for a more nuanced understanding of national symbols and their potential to both unite and divide Moreover, the controversy surrounding the third stanza of the national anthem calls for a reevaluation of the dominant narratives and interpretations that have shaped the understanding of national symbols It challenges the existing literature on national symbols by highlighting the need to critically examine the historical and cultural contexts in which these symbols emerge It calls for a recognition of the diverse experiences and perspectives within a society and the importance of including marginalized voices in discussions about national identity and political discourse The controversy surrounding the third stanza of the national anthem also highlights the importance of acknowledging and confronting historical injustices It serves as a reminder that the history of a nation is complex and includes both triumphs 38 and dark chapters By addressing the controversies and difficult aspects of national symbols, societies can strive for a more inclusive and honest understanding of their past This challenges the notion that national symbols should only evoke feelings of pride and unity, and instead emphasizes the need to engage in critical dialogue and reflection The Anthem's Linguistic Accessibility and Political Engagement Another significant challenge that emerges from the analysis is the anthem's linguistic accessibility, which poses a challenge to theories that prioritize language proficiency as a prerequisite for political engagement Traditionally, language proficiency has been considered a crucial factor for individuals to actively participate in political processes The assumption has been that individuals with limited language skills may face barriers to understanding and engaging with political symbols and discourse However, the impact of the national anthem on cross-cultural communication among language learners challenges this assumption and calls for a reevaluation of the relationship between language proficiency and political agency The analysis of the national anthem suggests that even with limited language proficiency, individuals can still connect with and derive meaning from national symbols The anthem's cultural significance and emotional resonance transcend language barriers, enabling language learners to engage with the anthem and gain insights into the cultural fabric of the nation This engagement contributes to their integration into political discourse and fosters a sense of belonging, challenging the notion that language fluency is the sole determinant of political agency By recognizing the power of national symbols in facilitating cross-cultural communication, the research highlights the importance of inclusivity in political participation It emphasizes that political engagement should not be solely contingent upon language proficiency, as individuals with diverse linguistic backgrounds can still contribute to political processes This challenges the prevailing assumption that language acts as a barrier to participation and inclusion Instead, the analysis of the national anthem suggests that individuals can connect with and contribute to political discourse through their shared experiences and emotional connections to national symbols 39 The findings underscore the need for a more inclusive approach to understanding political participation, one that acknowledges the potential for individuals with varying levels of language proficiency to actively engage in political processes This requires recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in the absence of complete linguistic mastery By embracing this more inclusive perspective, political discourse can become more representative and reflective of the diverse voices within a society The Controversy of the National Anthem's Representation and Inclusivity The controversy surrounding the national anthem's representation and inclusivity brings into question the notion of a homogeneous national identity It sheds light on the existence of multiple narratives within a nation, especially those of marginalized communities This challenges traditional theories that conceive of national identity as a unified and unchanging construct Instead, it calls for a more nuanced understanding that recognizes national identity as dynamic and contested The controversy surrounding the national anthem reveals that national identity is not a monolithic entity but rather a complex interplay of diverse perspectives, experiences, and histories It highlights the need to acknowledge and incorporate the voices and histories of marginalized communities that have often been overlooked or overshadowed in dominant narratives of national identity By challenging the notion of a singular and fixed national identity, this research emphasizes the importance of recognizing the fluidity and complexity of national identities It prompts researchers to engage with the diverse narratives and experiences that have shaped and continue to shape the nation This approach enables a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics within a society and encourages the exploration of marginalized voices, histories, and struggles that contribute to the complex tapestry of a nation's identity Furthermore, this perspective on national identity calls for a more inclusive approach to scholarship and public discourse It challenges researchers and policymakers to consider the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities 40 and to create spaces for their voices to be heard By doing so, a more comprehensive and representative understanding of national identity can be achieved, fostering a sense of belonging and social cohesion among all members of a diverse society In summary This research provides valuable insights and implications for English language learners seeking to develop their language skills and cultural understanding Firstly, studying the US national anthem within the framework of political culture allows language learners to explore the intersection of language, history, and politics By delving into the symbolism, representation, and historical context of the anthem, learners gain a deeper understanding of American values, beliefs, and traditions This knowledge enhances their cultural competency, enabling them to engage more effectively in discussions and interactions with native English speakers Secondly, the study of the US national anthem in relation to political culture provides language learners with a platform to discuss and reflect on their own national identity and political values By comparing and contrasting their own cultural context with that of the United States, learners can gain a broader global perspective and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity In terms of language development, this research fosters language learners' vocabulary expansion as they encounter specific terminology related to political culture, symbolism, and historical contexts They acquire domain-specific language skills that can be applied to future academic and professional endeavors Moreover, the study encourages language learners to engage in authentic materials such as speeches, articles, and discussions surrounding the US national anthem and political culture This exposure to real-world language use enhances their listening and reading comprehension, while also providing opportunities for practicing oral and written communication skills through class discussions, debates, and written assignments Overall, the impact of this study on language learners is multifaceted It promotes cultural understanding, critical thinking, and language proficiency By examining the 41 US national anthem's role in American political culture, language learners can broaden their horizons, develop a global perspective, and become more effective communicators in English 4.3 Limitations and suggestions for future research While the present analysis provides valuable insights into the US national anthem's reflection and shaping of American political culture, there are limitations that offer opportunities for future research One limitation is the focus on the US national anthem as a singular case study While the anthem is a significant national symbol, it represents only one facet of American political culture Future research could expand the scope by examining other national symbols, such as flags, mottos, or historical landmarks, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their impact on political culture Comparative studies across different nations and their national symbols could also provide valuable insights into the similarities and differences in how symbols reflect and shape political identities Another limitation is the reliance on textual analysis and historical context While these methods offer valuable insights, future research could incorporate other interdisciplinary approaches to examine the anthem's impact on political culture For example, sociological and anthropological methodologies could explore the anthem's reception and interpretation among diverse social groups Moreover, qualitative research methods, such as interviews or focus groups, could capture the perspectives and experiences of individuals directly engaged with the anthem, including language learners, marginalized communities, and political activists Additionally, the analysis primarily focuses on the anthem's role in reflecting and shaping American political culture at a broader level Future research could delve into the localized and contextualized effects of the anthem, exploring how it influences political discourse, public sentiment, and civic engagement within specific communities or regions Such micro-level investigations would provide a more nuanced understanding of the anthem's impact on different segments of the population 42 Furthermore, while the discussion touches on the controversy surrounding the anthem's representation and inclusivity, further research could critically examine the implications of this controversy on social movements, activism, and policy changes This would involve analyzing how marginalized communities and their allies mobilize around issues related to the anthem, and the strategies they employ to challenge and reshape the dominant narratives embedded within it Lastly, the study does not directly address the impact of technological advancements and globalization on the dissemination and interpretation of the anthem Future research could explore how digital platforms, social media, and transnational exchanges influence the reception and understanding of the anthem among diverse audiences This would shed light on the evolving nature of national symbols in an increasingly interconnected world 43 CONCLUSION In this thesis, researcher has explored the ways in which the US national anthem reflects and shapes American political culture, as well as its role in promoting crosscultural communication and understanding, particularly among language learners By examining the anthem's linguistic accessibility, cultural symbolism, historical context, and impact on national identity, the researcher has gained valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of this important national symbol Regarding the first research question, our findings indicate that the US national anthem plays a significant role in reflecting and shaping American political culture Through its emphasis on national unity, pride, and the celebration of freedom and bravery, the anthem highlights the deep-rooted sense of collective identity among Americans It reaffirms the core principles of American political ideology, such as individualism, democracy, and the pursuit of personal liberties Additionally, the anthem's controversies surrounding inclusivity and historical context challenge traditional theories on national symbols and underscore the complexities of American national identity In response to the second research question, which have demonstrated that the national anthem promotes cross-cultural communication and understanding, particularly among language learners Its linguistic accessibility, with lyrics usually composed in the country's official language, serves as a valuable resource for language learners seeking to engage with the cultural fabric of a nation By studying the anthem's lyrics, vocabulary, and grammatical structures, language learners enhance their language skills while gaining insights into the cultural nuances and traditions of the country This fosters intercultural understanding and opens avenues for dialogue among individuals from diverse backgrounds Reflecting on our research process, reseacher employed a rigorous methodology that included qualitative analysis of the anthem's lyrics, historical context, and cultural symbolism This approach allowed for a comprehensive examination of the anthem's 44 role in American political culture and its potential for promoting intercultural understanding The findings suggest that more research and approaches are needed in a few areas Firstly, future studies could expand beyond the singular focus on the US national anthem and explore the impact of other national symbols, such as flags, mottos, or historical landmarks, on political culture Secondly, while this analysis primarily relied on textual analysis and historical context, future research could incorporate interdisciplinary approaches Sociological and anthropological methodologies could provide insights into the reception and interpretation of the anthem among different social groups Thirdly, future studies could delve into the localized and contextualized effects of the anthem, examining its influence on political discourse, public sentiment, and civic engagement within specific communities or regions This thesis has added new knowledge to the field by exploring the complex connection between the US national anthem, American political culture, and crosscultural communication Researcher has challenged existing theories on national symbols and political discourse, emphasizing the importance of historical context, cultural symbolism, and language accessibility Research has shown that national identity is not a single, fixed concept and that we need a more inclusive approach that considers different stories and perspectives By shedding light on these aspects, we have contributed to a better understanding of the anthem's role in shaping American society In closing, the US national anthem serves as a powerful symbol that reflects and shapes American political culture It embodies values of national unity, freedom, and bravery, while promoting cross-cultural communication and understanding By recognizing its complexities, embracing inclusivity, and considering diverse perspectives, the study can foster a stronger sense of national identity and contribute to a more interconnected and inclusive global community The findings of this thesis provide valuable insights into the role of national symbols in political culture and pave the way for further exploration and understanding of these complex phenomena 45 REFERENCES The Star-Spangled Banner O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light, What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming, Whose 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And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there, O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave? On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep, As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses? Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam, In full glory reflected now shines in the stream, ’Tis the star-spangled banner - O long may it wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave! And where is that band who so vauntingly swore, That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion A home and a Country should leave us no more? 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