How the Flag Became Old Glory

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27853

Title

How the Flag Became Old Glory

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This anthology chronicles the enduring legacy of the American flag through historical vignettes and poetry. From Captain William Driver's christening of the banner as 'Old Glory' to its defense at New Orleans and its unifying power during the Civil War and Spanish-American War, the collection explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and national identity.

Summary up to 500 words

In *How the Flag Became Old Glory*, Mrs. Emma Look Scott weaves a lyrical tapestry of American history through essays and poems that trace the evolution of the national flag from a personal emblem to a sacred symbol of unity. The narrative begins with the story of Captain William Driver, a Salem sea captain who, after consecrating his ship's flag with water and dedicating it to the Trinity, christened it "Old Glory." This name, born of his reverence for the Stars and Stripes as a tangible token of government strength, endured through his long maritime career, including his rescue of Bounty mutineers in the South Pacific. When the Civil War erupted, Driver's devotion was tested; he hid his flag in a sea chest to protect it from Confederate soldiers, eventually raising it triumphantly over the Tennessee State Capitol after Union forces recaptured Nashville, formally christening the nation's emblem in the eyes of the public. The volume then chronicles the flag's pivotal role in major conflicts. During the War of 1812, it flew above Andrew Jackson's defenses in the Battle of New Orleans, where his indomitable spirit secured a decisive victory against the British. The text transitions to the Civil War, presenting the flag as a source of comfort and resolve amidst the horrors of battles like Shiloh and Fredericksburg. Scott highlights the tragic heroism of figures like Albert Sidney Johnston and the naval prowess of Admiral Farragut, whose "Old Heart of Oak" spirit broke through Confederate defenses. The collection features poignant contributions from poets such as Henry Holcomb Bennett and Abram Joseph Ryan, whose "The Conquered Banner" expresses sorrowful reverence following General Lee's surrender at Appomattox. Ultimately, the book examines the flag's power to transcend regional divisions and personal loss. It illustrates how former enemies, North and South, fought side-by-side under the Stars and Stripes during the Spanish-American War, particularly in Cuba, where the flag served as a unifying force for prisoners and soldiers alike. Through verse and prose, Scott portrays the flag not merely as cloth, but as a living entity that witnessed the nation's growth, protected its citizens, and bound the country together in a shared identity of liberty and honor.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg27853.epub

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Categories

• History
• Flags