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1852–1933

PEACE-HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC

Henry Van Dyke

O Lord our God, Thy mighty hand Hath made our country free; From all her broad and happy land May praise arise to Thee.

Fulfill the promise of her youth, Her liberty defend; By law and order, love and truth, America befriend!

The strength of every State increase In Union's golden chain; Her thousand cities fill with peace, Her million fields with grain.

The virtues of her mingled blood In one new people blend; By unity and brotherhood, America befriend!

O suffer not her feet to stray; But guide her untaught might, That she may walk in peaceful day, And lead the world in light.

Bring down the proud, lift up the poor, Unequal ways amend; By justice, nation-wide and sure, America befriend!

Thro’ all the waiting land proclaim Thy gospel of good-will; And may the music of Thy name In every bosom thrill.

O'er hill and vale, from sea to sea. Thy holy reign extend; By faith and hope and charity, America befriend!

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