The first half of the 20th century marked a time of immense difficulty for the United States and many other countries around the world. In just three decades, the world has experienced two of the most destructive wars in history, the Great Depression, and countless other tragedies that will leave an indelible mark on human history. Surprisingly, this dark and desperate era also gave rise to one of the most vibrant and beloved forms of music of the 20th century: swing. But swing music has become much more than just songs to listen to on the radio or music to dance to in clubs. It has become a true place of patriotism, unity and even revolution – in peacetime and wartime, in the United States and even in war-torn Europe. Swing music—and its predecessor, jazz—is, as swing artist Benny Goodman famously said, “a special folk music in the United States” (Erenberg 65). It is perhaps one of the most “American” musical genres. The very characteristics that define swing music are uniquely “American”; it is lively, promotes freedom of expression (through improvisation) and overflows with seemingly endless optimism. It's energetic, young and above all unifying. As it is formed from a mixture of elements of African-American, European, and American folk music, swing played a crucial role in bringing the issue of racial integration to the forefront of the American psyche, particularly among the younger population. It’s no surprise that swing was so popular – it promised “personal freedom, hope for a better life, and some measure.” . . of racial acceptance” (Erenberg 70), which seems an appropriate remedy for a society suffering not only from widespread unemployment and hardship, but also from endemic racism and classism. Swing...... middle of paper ...... similar article to "Swing Time for Hitler" which focuses primarily on the Swing Youth and their dedication to American ideals found in swing music. US War Department. Handbook on German Military Forces. Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Louisiana State University Press, 1990. This book contains mountains of information about the German forces of World War II, ranging from their daily routines to the very strategies they used. It contains a section on music and morale, which should be helpful in comparing the American spirit and attitude in songs to the German spirit and attitude. Wilmott, Cross, Messenger. Second World War. NYC, New York: Dorling Kindersley, 2004. This is an intensive encyclopedia of World War II, featuring some popular songs from the major countries involved. This should prove useful when comparing German and American music..