This is America’s anthem for civil rights.

There is exactly one old hymn that everyone recognizes, and moves people who have no feeling for the spiritual or religious. “Amazing Grace” transcended the church and became a folk song, and an anthem for civil rights. Yet its origins are unexpected and complicated: it was written by a slave trader who did not renounce slavery until long after he wrote it. 

Produced by Trey Kay

Special thanks to Gene Gilliland and the people from the Big Singing Day in Benton, Kentucky.