I agree with most of the above discussion, but where I depart would be on the Mason-Dixon Line's significance in the writer's mind. Of course, the history is central to the significance of the song. Few might recall the purpose for drawing the line, but most would appreciate what the line represents in American history.
Many outside of America look at us as a great experiment - one to emulate when we succeed. My guess is that too few Americans (including myself) knew for whom it was named, however everyone appreciates what it marked as a pivotal juncture in American history.
It is terrific to now appreciate it a bit further, but most who study American history would unequivocally understand the significance of the Mason-Dixon Line. And fully appreciate the significance of the boundary line as an important juncture American and world history - as I'm certain the author fully understood when writing this great song.
I agree with most of the above discussion, but where I depart would be on the Mason-Dixon Line's significance in the writer's mind. Of course, the history is central to the significance of the song. Few might recall the purpose for drawing the line, but most would appreciate what the line represents in American history.
Many outside of America look at us as a great experiment - one to emulate when we succeed. My guess is that too few Americans (including myself) knew for whom it was named, however everyone appreciates what it marked as a pivotal juncture in American history.
It is terrific to now appreciate it a bit further, but most who study American history would unequivocally understand the significance of the Mason-Dixon Line. And fully appreciate the significance of the boundary line as an important juncture American and world history - as I'm certain the author fully understood when writing this great song.