What is slave song wade in the water?

"Wade in the Water" is a traditional African-American slave song that has its roots in pre-Civil War America. The song is believed to have originated from the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped slaves escape to freedom in the North.

The lyrics of the song encouraged people fleeing slavery to wade in bodies of water, which would make it more difficult for their pursuers to track them. Water was also seen as a symbol of spiritual cleansing and rebirth, representing the slaves' desire to leave behind their old lives and start anew.

The song gained popularity during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, as it was used as a protest song against segregation and oppression. Over the years, "Wade in the Water" has been recorded and performed by countless artists, including Ella Jenkins, Odetta, and Aretha Franklin.

Today, the song continues to hold meaning for many people as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the struggle for freedom.