This Little Light of Mine originated as a African-American spiritual in the 1920s, later popularized during the Civil Rights Movement. Its simple, repetitive structure and empowering message made it a protest anthem, famously used by Fannie Lou Hamer. The song symbolizes resilience against oppression through its metaphor of an unquenchable inner light.
Traditional African-American spiritual popularized during 1950-1960s Civil Rights Movement. Often performed as a protest song and children's hymn.
"This Little Light of Mine" is a seminal gospel hymn popularized during the Civil Rights Movement, with roots in early 20th-century African American spiritual traditions. Its call-and-response structure and uplifting lyrics made it a protest anthem.
"This Little Light of Mine" is a traditional African-American spiritual that dates back to the 19th century. It gained widespread popularity during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, where it was adapted as a protest song and anthem of perseverance. The song's simple, uplifting message about letting one's inner light shine despite adversity made it particularly resonant. While its exact origins are unknown, it has been performed by countless artists across gospel, folk, and popular music genres.