The Hands that Built America

"These are the hands that built America..."

Written in 2002!

I believe that this song is about the blending of cultures in America that really make up America. The song mentions many different nationalities after singing "these are the hands that built america" and I believe it refers to the fact that, throughout america's history, other groups and cultures have immigrated and helped produce the America that we have today. They helped to build America. Russian, Sioux,Dutch, Hindu, Polish, Irish, German, Italian, the Irish, the Blacks, The Chinese, the Jews, Korean, Hispanic, Muslim, Indian. And finally in the final verse, U2 makes a reference to 9/11. At the same time, however, he bring in historical events such as the Irish Potato Famine and how that shaped America, as well as the "American Promise"

U2 did a great job with this song. They subtly throw in other nationalities to a point where you cant even hear it, giving a mysterious effect. I can tell the sadness in the song especially after 9/11. Although he wasn't there to witness immigration, he is presently witnessing the effects of a Cosmopolitan society.

I love this song. This might in fact be my favorite song on the CD. I love U2.

This song serves as a reminder that America is never and has never really been one country.