All we′ve been given

By those who came before

The dream of a nation

Where freedom would endure

The work and prayers of centuries

Have brought us to this day

What shall be our legacy?

What will our children say?

Let them say of me

I was one who believed

In sharing the blessings

I received

Let me know in my heart

When my days are through

America, America

I gave my best to you

Each generation from the plains

To distant shore with the gifts

What they were given

Were determined to leave more

Battles fought together

Acts of conscience fought alone

These are the seeds

From which America has grown

Let them say of me

I was one who believed

In sharing the blessings

That I received

Let me know in my heart

When my days are through

America, America

I gave my best to you

For those who think

They have nothing to share

Who fear in their hearts

There is no hero there

Know each quiet act of dignity

Is that which fortifies

The soul of a nation

That never dies

Let them say of me

I was one who believed

In sharing the blessings

I received

Let me know in my heart

When my days are through

America, America

I gave my best to you

America

I gave my best to you