Spirituals

Most spirituals were based on Biblical stories, particularly those about Moses.

"Home" in "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" refers to heaven and to the plantation where the singer lived.

Religious hymns encouraged by white preachers inspired the singing of spirituals.

Spirituals were a new experience for the enslaved people because they had no musical heritage.

Spirituals originated among enslaved African-Americans in the United States.

In "Go Down, Moses," the refrain "Let my people go" refers both to the ancient Israelites and to the slaves themselves.

Slave owners understood the dual messages in spirituals, but allowed them to sing about freedom anyway.

Some spirituals included secret messages and even practical advice on how to achieve freedom.

Spirituals expressed deep religous feelings as well as the desire for freedom.

Hand-copied versions of the spirituals were passed down from generation to generation.