During this time period, music in Appalachia was starting to pick up and become more popular. Coal mining was the prevalent job at this time and many miners were not happy with conditions and wages, so they protested. Musicians sang about the struggles of miners and about their protesting, as a way to help the miners. In this age the radio began to appear more and more, so with these songs of protest, word would spread quickly.

Later in the U.S. there were other struggles that became portrayed through music such as the civil rights movement. The music played was very powerful and moving, and was able to bring the people together. Soul music inspired the African-American community and gave them strength together. Music at this time also helped begin bring the races together and find more common ground.

I think music plays such a big role in this kind of work because the work is so stressful and music can ease the stress and unite people. Also music is so effective in these types of movements because so many people can enjoy it, there is no one specific target audience. Sure, one group may be the focus of the music, but it can mean something to anyone. This idea allows groups of people to come together and resolve differences to help one another.