The music video for “Common People Song” by Horrible Histories’ Putrid Politics has captured the attention of audiences worldwide with its catchy beat and satirical lyrics. This song provides a humorous yet insightful commentary on society’s obsession with wealth and status, as well as the persistent class divide that still plagues us today. In this blog post, we will explore the historical context behind the song, examine its relevance to the modern-day, and consider the ways in which Putrid Politics has used their platform to spark important discussions about social justice and equality.
Introduction
Horrible Histories is a British children’s program that explores the funny, yucky, and gruesome bits of history that are often left out of traditional school lessons. With catchy songs and hilarious skits, the show keeps kids engaged while teaching them about important historical events and the people who shaped them. In this article, we will delve into one of Horrible Histories’ most popular songs, “For the Common People,” which is part of the “Putrid Politics” series. We’ll discuss the historical context of the song, its meaning, and why it resonates with both kids and adults alike.
Historical Background
The “Putrid Politics” series in Horrible Histories focuses on the struggle for democracy throughout history, from ancient Greece to modern times. “For the Common People” is a song that is set during the English Civil War, which took place in the mid-17th century. The war was fought between the Royalists, who supported King Charles I, and the Parliamentarians, who wanted to limit the king’s power and increase their own. The Parliamentarians won the war, and King Charles I was executed in 1649, marking the first time a European monarch was executed by their own people.
Lyrics and Meaning
The lyrics of “For the Common People” describe the struggles of ordinary people during the English Civil War. The song is written from the perspective of a soldier fighting for the Parliamentarians. The soldier laments the fact that he is fighting for a cause that he doesn’t fully understand, and that he is risking his life for people who may not appreciate his sacrifice. The chorus of the song repeats the lines “For the common people, fighting for their lives, it’s enough to make you wanna cry.”
The song’s meaning is universal, even though it is set in a specific historical context. The idea that ordinary people suffer the most during wartime is true throughout history and across cultures. The song’s lyrics highlight the fact that wars are often fought for political reasons, rather than the needs of the people. The soldier singing the song represents the many people throughout history who have fought and died for causes that may not have directly benefited them.
Why the Song Resonates
“For the Common People” is a popular song because it speaks to people of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s catchy melody and poignant lyrics are easy to remember, and its message is powerful. The song encourages listeners to think critically about the motivations behind war and to empathize with the people who suffer the most during times of conflict. The song’s universal themes make it relevant to people living in any time or place.
Episodes and Extras
Horrible Histories has covered a wide range of historical events and figures in its various series. The show is available on the BBC iPlayer, where viewers can watch full episodes and access extras like behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the show’s creators. The Horrible Histories website (horrible-histories.co.uk) also offers additional resources, including educational materials and games.
Subscribe for More
Viewers who enjoy Horrible Histories can subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel for more content. The channel features sketch compilations, parodies, and songs, including “For the Common People.” By subscribing, viewers can ensure that they never miss an episode or song from the show.
Conclusion
Horrible Histories has become a favorite among kids and adults alike, thanks to its humorous take on history and its ability to make even the most gruesome aspects of the past entertaining. “For the Common People” is one of the show’s most popular songs, thanks to its catchy melody and universal message. The song encourages listeners to think critically about the nature of war and to empathize with the people who suffer the most during times of conflict. With the show’s availability on the BBC iPlayer and YouTube, viewers can easily access more Horrible Histories content and continue learning about history in a fun and engaging way.
FAQs
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Is Horrible Histories appropriate for children?
Yes, the show is aimed at children between the ages of 6 and 12. However, adults can also enjoy the show’s humor and historical content. -
Where can I watch Horrible Histories?
The show is available on the BBC iPlayer and can be accessed by viewers in the UK. It is also available on various streaming services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. -
Is Horrible Histories historically accurate?
While the show takes some creative liberties for the sake of humor, it is generally accurate in its depiction of historical events and figures. -
Who are the creators of Horrible Histories?
The show was created by Terry Deary, a children’s author, and produced by Lion Television and Citrus Television. -
What other topics does Horrible Histories cover?
The show covers a wide range of historical events and figures, from ancient Egypt to World War II. Some of its other popular series include “Rotten Romans” and “Vicious Vikings.”