PS. I do understand that 'traditional' is too wide open to personal interpretation to strictly describe songs that were circulated amongst the common people before the industrial revolution put an end to the oral tradition. It's simply that thus far it seemed the least confusing referent to use for someone like me wanting to learn about such songs. So I respect anyone else's right to use the term 'traditional' - it's a word fully open to any number of uses depending on context. I also think that America - as a relatively young nation compared to most - has a younger 'tradition' of songs. But they are still traditional to the US and deserving of attention and recognition for having served their time.