it's about an Imperialistic America starting from the second half of the 1800s towards the end of the second world war. During that time, America's most used communication was the Telegraph, and as the song states, "We've got telegraphs, hand in hand" refers to how it was widespread to use them during those eras.
When they talk about 'God' having a telegraph, they're referring to how God gave them that technology and that they're content to spread that knowledge to others, most notably the remaining Native Americans and Filipinos (The invasion of the Philippines was underway at around this time, as expected). The line 'God bless America', and 'They'll understand the value of the Telegraph, Hand in Hand' talks about this form of colonization that was common around the regions America attempted to reign control over. During those times, America attempted to invade these lands unjustly, and to make themselves feel better about it, they say they're 'educating' them about technology.
So, in conclusion, Telegraph by OMD is about the imperialistic and condescending attitudes Americans had in relation with technology and colonization. A rather intellectual song that concerns meaningful topics at hand.
it's about an Imperialistic America starting from the second half of the 1800s towards the end of the second world war. During that time, America's most used communication was the Telegraph, and as the song states, "We've got telegraphs, hand in hand" refers to how it was widespread to use them during those eras.
When they talk about 'God' having a telegraph, they're referring to how God gave them that technology and that they're content to spread that knowledge to others, most notably the remaining Native Americans and Filipinos (The invasion of the Philippines was underway at around this time, as expected). The line 'God bless America', and 'They'll understand the value of the Telegraph, Hand in Hand' talks about this form of colonization that was common around the regions America attempted to reign control over. During those times, America attempted to invade these lands unjustly, and to make themselves feel better about it, they say they're 'educating' them about technology.
So, in conclusion, Telegraph by OMD is about the imperialistic and condescending attitudes Americans had in relation with technology and colonization. A rather intellectual song that concerns meaningful topics at hand.