This story is part of American Anthem, a yearlong series on songs that rouse, unite, celebrate and call to action. Find more at NPR.org/Anthem. Aaron Copland's ...

In 1942 U.S. Vice President Henry Wallace gave a speech about the “Century of the Common Man.” He stated that the American Common Man (people) would be willing to die and go abroad to defend ...

At an undetermined time and place, Merle Haggard wrote and read an untitled letter and or poem for the common man. In the broader canon of Merle Haggard, this letter is often forgotten.