An Unofficial Anthem
The original handwritten chorus of "God Bless America," signed by Irving Berlin, ca. 1938
While the “Star-Spangled Banner” is America’s official national anthem, there are multiple tunes that have risen to unofficial status, including Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America.”
On view at the National Archives Museum from June 30 - July 5, 2026 are the original handwritten lyrics to “God Bless America,” as composed by Berlin.
Courtesy of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Berlin was one of two million Jewish immigrants who fled the targeted violence of Russia between 1880 and 1924. After living in the U.S. for more than a decade, Berlin became a naturalized American citizen and was soon drafted in World War I. In 1918, he penned the original lyrics to “God Bless America,” but put it aside for 20 years.
When World War II began, Berlin revived his old lyrics in response to the growing threat of Nazism in Europe. “God Bless America” became a hit during the war as a beacon for peace. Almost 100 years later, it remains a popular patriotic song that reflects the breadth of the American experience.
How does the chorus go?
God bless America –
land that I love — stand beside her
and guide her – thru the night with a light from above – from the mountains to the prairies – to the oceans – white with
foam – God bless America –
my home sweet home –
God bless America –
my home sweet home –