The fact that “We Shall Overcome” became the civil rights anthem showed the powerful influence in the movement of:

1. black evangelical churches

2. popular music

3. liberal white northerners

4. songwriters

5. Christians, regardless of their race

2 or 4

I disagree with both of your answers.

What does your book say?

I cannot find it in the book.

What is your suggested answer and why?

To determine the correct answer, let's break down the question and consider the options provided.

The question asks about the powerful influence in the civil rights movement that led to the song "We Shall Overcome" becoming the civil rights anthem.

Option 1 suggests that black evangelical churches had a powerful influence on the civil rights movement. While it is true that churches played a crucial role in the movement, specifically black churches, they did not directly influence the popularity of the song.

Option 2 suggests that popular music had a powerful influence on the civil rights movement. This option is likely the correct answer because "We Shall Overcome" became widely known and embraced as a symbol of the movement. It was sung during protests and demonstrations, connecting people emotionally and creating a sense of unity.

Option 3 suggests that liberal white northerners had a powerful influence on the civil rights movement. While their support and activism were important, they would not be the primary influencers of the popularity of the song.

Option 4 suggests that songwriters had a powerful influence on the civil rights movement. While songwriters indeed played a role in creating songs of protest and resistance, they did not have a direct influence on the popularity of "We Shall Overcome."

Option 5 suggests that Christians, regardless of their race, had a powerful influence on the civil rights movement. While Christianity played a significant role in shaping the beliefs and actions of many civil rights activists, this option does not specifically address the impact on the popularity of the song.

Based on this analysis, the most likely correct answer is option 2: popular music.