Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the U.S.A. is commonly viewed as a patriotic song but holds deeper meanings about struggle and disappointment. Released in 1984, it quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100.

Bruce Springsteen | Credits: Stian Schløsser Møller | Cca 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

Further, the song tells the story of a working-class man who faces many challenges, including his experience in the Vietnam War and feelings of being forgotten by his country.

Unfortunately, Ronald Reagan’s campaign used the song to promote American pride, leading many people to misunderstand its true message.

How Ronald Reagan Co-opted Bruce Springsteen’s Anthem Against the Singer’s Intentions Bruce Springsteen | Credits: Dharmabumstead | Cca 4.0/Wikimedia Commons

Many artists, including Bruce Springsteen, have spoken out against politicians using their music for campaigns. In September 1984, while his hit song Born in the U.S.A. was topping charts, politician Ronald Reagan claimed...