Johnny Cash – The Ballad of Ira Hayes

Introduction

Johnny Cash, often referred to as the “Man in Black,” was known for his ability to tell compelling stories through music. One of his poignant songs, “The Ballad of Ira Hayes,” captures the tragic tale of a Native American hero who fought bravely but faced deep struggles upon returning home. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the song’s background, themes, and its enduring impact.

The Story Behind the Song

Written by Peter La Farge in the early 1960s, “The Ballad of Ira Hayes” tells the true story of Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian and a U.S. Marine who participated in the iconic World War II battle of Iwo Jima. Hayes was one of the soldiers depicted in the famous photograph of the flag raising on Mount Suribachi. While celebrated as a hero, he returned home to a life marked by discrimination and hardship, struggling with the trauma of war and the challenges faced by Indigenous people in America.

Johnny Cash’s rendition, released in 1964, brought wider attention to Hayes’ story, blending folk and country music elements to create a haunting narrative. Cash’s deep voice adds gravity to the lyrics, emphasizing the sorrow and injustice faced by Hayes.

Themes of Sacrifice and Injustice

Heroism vs. Reality

At the heart of “The Ballad of Ira Hayes” is the stark contrast between the public perception of heroism and the personal struggles faced by veterans. While Hayes was celebrated as a war hero, his life after the war was plagued by poverty and alcoholism, reflecting the often-overlooked realities of returning soldiers. The song serves as a reminder that heroism does not shield individuals from the difficulties of life.

Indigenous Struggles

The song also highlights the broader issues faced by Native Americans. Despite Hayes’ bravery and sacrifice, he returned to a society that marginalized him. Cash’s lyrics poignantly illustrate this injustice, shedding light on the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in the United States. The song’s message resonates today, as it calls for recognition and understanding of these ongoing issues.

Cultural Impact

“The Ballad of Ira Hayes” has had a lasting impact on both music and social consciousness. It raised awareness about the struggles of Indigenous veterans and served as a voice for those who felt unheard. Cash’s powerful delivery turned the song into a haunting reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans, prompting listeners to reflect on their treatment upon returning home.

Influence on Activism

The song’s poignant message has been embraced by various movements advocating for Indigenous rights and veteran support. Its timeless relevance continues to inspire activism and discussions about social justice, making it a significant piece of American music history.

Conclusion

Johnny Cash’s “The Ballad of Ira Hayes” is more than a song; it’s a powerful tribute to sacrifice, struggle, and the quest for justice. By sharing Ira Hayes’ story, Cash not only honors a hero but also confronts the uncomfortable truths of societal neglect and the complexities of heroism.

As we listen to this moving ballad, we’re reminded of the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by all veterans and the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. Johnny Cash’s legacy as a storyteller endures, encouraging us to reflect, empathize, and advocate for those whose stories deserve to be heard.

Lyrics

 

Ira Hayes
Ira Hayes
Call him drunken Ira Hayes
He won’t answer anymore
Not the whiskey drinking Indian
Or the marine that went to war

Gather ’round me people
There’s a story I would tell
‘Bout a brave young Indian
You should remember well
From the land of the Pima Indian
A proud and noble band
Who farmed the Phoenix Valley
In Arizona land
Down the ditches a thousand years
The waters grew Ira’s peoples’ crops
‘Til the white man stole their water rights
And the sparkling water stopped
Now, Ira’s folks were hungry
And their land grew crops of weeds
When war came, Ira volunteered
And forgot the white man’s greed

Call him drunken Ira Hayes
He won’t answer anymore
Not the whiskey drinking Indian
Or the marine that went to war

There they battled up Iwo Jima hill
Two hundred and fifty men
But only twenty-seven lived
To walk back down again
And when the fight was over
And Old Glory raised
Among the men who held it high
Was the Indian, Ira Hayes

Call him drunken Ira Hayes
He won’t answer anymore
Not the whiskey drinking Indian
Or the marine that went to war

Ira Hayes returned a hero
Celebrated through the land
He was wined and speeched and honored
Everybody shook his hand
But he was just a Pima Indian
No water, no home, no chance
At home nobody cared what Ira’d done
And when did the Indians dance

Call him drunken Ira Hayes
He won’t answer anymore
Not the whiskey drinking Indian
Or the marine that went to war

Then Ira started drinking hard
Jail was often his home
They let him raise the flag and lower it
Like you’d throw a dog a bone
He died drunk early one morning
Alone in the land he fought to save
Two inches of water and a lonely ditch
Was a grave for Ira Hayes

Call him drunken Ira Hayes
He won’t answer anymore
Not the whiskey drinking Indian
Or the marine that went to war

Yeah, call him drunken Ira Hayes
But his land is just as dry
And his ghost is lying thirsty
In the ditch where Ira died