Challenges of the Post War World
(1946-1968)

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources related to the important Civil Rights anthem, "We Shall Overcome."

Thinking Questions

"We Shall Overcome" Lyrics

sheet music on sepia-toned paper

This sheet music includes the simple, yet powerful lyrics for "We Shall Overcome."

Tracing the Long Journey of "We Shall Overcome"

screenshot of video of interview with Pete Seeger

The oral histories included in this blogpost are with musicians Pete Seeger and Jamila Jones. In the interviews they reflect on the history of “We Shall Overcome.”

Civil Rights March on Washington, D.C.

black and white photo of a group of marchers holding signs

TThis photograph from August 28, 1963 shows Black men and women protesting for equal rights, integrated schools, fair housing, and an end to racial bias.

The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom"

color photograph of a large group of people marching with signs

This photograph shows protesters at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Protesters sang “We Shall Overcome" at the March as they advocated for Civil Rights.

Lyndon B. Johnson's Address to Congress, Voting Rights, 1965

black text on a white background

This speech by President Johnson is about the Voting Rights Act, and he used the words "We Shall Overcome."

African American Spirituals

screenshot of website with black text on a white background and black and white photograph of Harriet Tubman

This website from the Library of Congress discusses the history of African American spirituals, including "We Shall Overcome."