Last Updated on October 11, 2020
Today in History–January 28–the Library of Congress features Julia Ward Howe, who became the first woman elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters on this date in 1908. Howe and her husband were active in the abolitionist movement. Later, time spent with Union troops inspired Howe to write the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” to the tune of the popular Union soldier marching song “John Brown’s Body“. Learn more about this author and activist by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below for more primary sources related to Julia Ward Howe and her famous song.
Julia Ward Howe Elected to American Academy of Arts and Letters from America’s Library
Julia Ward Howe historical newspaper coverage
Julia Ward Howe books & other texts
Julia Ward Howe song sheets & sheet music
Happy 200th Birthday to Julia Ward Howe! In the Muse blog May 27, 2019
“John Brown’s a-Hanging on a Sour Apple Tree” (song recording)
Battle Hymn of the Republic primary source set & background information
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