I don't think anyone could dispute that great ideas (both good and bad) can change history; songs can often reflect and develop such ideas, help to spread them and make them popular, often adding an emotional layer that helps them spread and be absorbed. You only have to look at footage of big political rallies and demonstrations, both pro- and anti-state, to see how songs have been used to stir the spirit and reinforce the message.

So although any one song on its own may not be responsible for changing history, I'm perfectly certain that songs (along with books, speeches, films, print media, and broadcasts) have played a part in many historical movements.

Marje