Today is the day we, in America, celebrate our independence as achieved through the American Revolution. It's a great time to take a look at all the great traditional patriotic American folk songs, as well as some contemporary songs about the 4th of July, before you head out to those barbecues Enjoy, and have a great holiday!

photo: Getty Images

For the past few weeks, I've been sharing a little bit of the history behind some of our great patriotic American folk songs. As a writer, I really appreciate the elegant beauty of "America the Beautiful." I know it may upset some people to admit it (and others may agree with me), but I've always been quite a bit more moved by this gorgeous hymn than by our national anthem. I'm not alone. There's been a movement for almost 50 years now to make "America the Beautiful" our national anthem, rather than—or, at least, along with—"The Star Spangled Banner."

Personally, I just identify more with the natural beauty and personal hardships that, combined, have perpetuated our country and all the things that are great about it, more than I identify with "bombs bursting in air" (of which I'd prefer to see less). But that's me. And, apparently, that was Katharine Lee Bates, too, at least in part. She's the Wellesley English professor who penned the eloquent tribute in 1893 during a trip to Pike's Peak. With the 4th of July coming up very soon, learn more about the history of "America the Beautiful."

photo: Getty Images