Primary vs. Secondary Sources Music about the Vietnam War

 Music can be a primary source if it was produced during the same time that the events in the song reference. Music as a Primary Source  Example: a song about being a soldier in World War II that was written during World War II.

 Music is a secondary source if it is reflective.  If a song is reflective, that means it references events that happened in the past. Music as a Secondary Source  Example: a song about being a soldier in World War II that was written in 2013 (after World War II).

Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival Date Released: September 1969 Fortunate Son is an anti-Vietnam war anthem, criticizing those who support the use of military force without having to pay the costs themselves (either financially or by enlisting in the war). The song was released during the Vietnam War.

Travelin’ Soldier by The Dixie Chicks Date Released: December 2002 Travelin' Soldier is a song about a Vietnam war soldier and his girlfriend. It was written and originally recorded by American country music artist Bruce Robison in It was covered by the Dixie Chicks in rQitrM&list=PLHexyTHrCxbljg6SeuLsNlyFqNT 6ND6Mw

 Which song that we listened to is a primary source? Why?  Which song that we listened to is a secondary source? Why?  Can listening to music help us understand what happened in history? Questions to Consider