Ridiculous History Podcast Summary
Episode: CLASSIC: Maryland’s State Song was a Diss Track
Release Date: December 14, 2024
Hosts: Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown
Produced by: iHeartRadio
Introduction
In this classic episode of Ridiculous History, hosts Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown delve into the peculiar and contentious history of Maryland’s state song, revealing its origins as a pro-Confederate diss track. The episode explores the intricate events of the Baltimore Riot of 1861, the cultural implications of the state song, and its eventual removal in 2018 due to its racist undertones.
Maryland’s Pro-Confederate Anthem
Ben:
“What you just heard, friends and Neighbors, is an excerpt from one of the most famous songs in Maryland's history.” [05:11]
Noel:
“Maryland, My Maryland is the equivalent of a diss track today.” [33:31]
Originally penned as a protest poem by James Ryder Randall, “Maryland, My Maryland” was set to the tune of “O Tannenbaum” by Jenny Carey, sister of Hetty Carey, known as the “Confederate Betsy Ross.”
Historical Context and the Baltimore Riot of 1861
The episode provides an in-depth look at the Baltimore Riot of April 19, 1861, a pivotal moment that underscored the deep-seated tensions in Maryland during the Civil War.
Noel:
“The streets were flecked with gore in Baltimore,” referring to the violent clashes between Union troops and Confederate sympathizers. [08:54]
Ben:
“Maryland was considered a southern state both geographically and culturally.” [10:11]
As Union troops, particularly from the 6th Massachusetts Infantry, marched through Baltimore to protect Washington D.C., they were met with violent resistance from Confederate sympathizers. The ensuing chaos resulted in casualties on both sides, marking some of the first deaths of the Civil War.
The Song as a Symbol of Defiance
“Maryland, My Maryland” became a symbol of Maryland’s Confederate sympathies. The song’s lyrics explicitly call out Union forces, branding them as “northern scum” and portraying Maryland as a fierce, avenging protector.
Ben:
“They clearly mention a titan, referring to Abraham Lincoln.” [33:46]
Noel:
“The song remains a protest anthem, not officially recognized until decades later.” [34:06]
Aftermath and Political Repercussions
Following the riot, Maryland was effectively occupied by Union forces despite the state's initial secession vote in June 1861. The occupation led to significant political and social upheaval, with Union sympathizers maintaining control over the state’s governance.
Noel:
“Maryland depended equally on the North and the South for its economy.” [47:05]
Despite the turmoil, approximately 60,000 Marylanders fought for the Union, while around 20,000 supported the Confederacy, highlighting the state's divided loyalties.
Removal of the State Song
In March 2018, reflecting modern sensibilities and the ongoing reevaluation of Confederate symbols, Maryland officially retired “Maryland, My Maryland” as its state song. The move was part of a broader effort to address and remove racist monuments and symbols across the United States.
Noel:
“The song was rebranded as a historical tune, removing its official status.” [34:39]
Ben:
“Maryland is walking a tightrope between its Union and Confederate past.” [47:41]
Cultural Reflections and Modern Implications
The hosts discuss the broader implications of maintaining or removing historical symbols tied to racism and the Confederacy. They draw parallels to other states and monuments undergoing similar reevaluations, emphasizing the importance of addressing history with a critical eye.
Ben:
“How many of these vestiges remain statues, songs, or symbols that need reevaluation?” [49:09]
Noel:
“There’s an ongoing debate about heritage versus the negative implications of these symbols.” [48:24]
Conclusion and Call to Action
Ben and Noel wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to reflect on the absurdity and complexity of historical symbols and their place in modern society. They invite listeners to share their own experiences with state or national symbols that may seem ridiculous or problematic.
Noel:
“What is a silly official thing about your state or country and where did it come from? You can write to us@ridiculoushistory.com.” [50:21]
Ben:
“History is not over. It's not even the past yet.” [47:56]
Key Takeaways
- Maryland’s State Song Origins: “Maryland, My Maryland” was originally a pro-Confederate protest poem that became the state song in 1939.
- Baltimore Riot of 1861: Highlighted severe tensions between Union troops and Confederate sympathizers, resulting in significant casualties and deepening Maryland’s divided loyalties.
- Removal of the State Song: In 2018, Maryland retired the song due to its racist and Confederate ties, aligning with broader movements to remove Confederate symbols.
- Cultural Impact: The episode underscores the importance of critically reassessing historical symbols to address past injustices and their legacy in contemporary society.
Notable Quotes
- Ben (05:11): “Maryland, My Maryland is the equivalent of a diss track today.”
- Noel (33:31): “Maryland, My Maryland is the equivalent of a diss track today.”
- Ben (34:39): “Maryland is walking a tightrope between its Union and Confederate past.”
- Noel (50:21): “What is a silly official thing about your state or country and where did it come from? You can write to us@ridiculoushistory.com.”
Engage with Ridiculous History
Share your thoughts and stories about ridiculous state or national symbols by joining the Ridiculous Historians group on Facebook and Instagram, or contact the hosts via email at us@ridiculoushistory.com. Don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes and tune in next time for more bizarre and fascinating historical tales.