Biography of george m cohan

At most every Independence Day parade across the U.S. you’re sure to hear the familiar sounds of “Yankee Doodle Boy.” But who exactly is George M. Cohan, the man behind the tune that's as much a harbinger of summer as barbecues and fireworks?

During his lifetime, Cohan wore many hats—songwriter, director, producer, actor, composer.

Today he lives on through his multitude of artistic achievements. Tunes like “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “Give My Regards to Broadway,” and “Over There” communicate the resilience of the American spirit, inspiring civilians and service members alike.

But the prolific artist was more than his patriotic anthems. Here are 10 things you might not have known about the music maker.

The namesake of “Yankee Doodle?” Although Cohan’s birth certificate says he was born July 3, in Rhode Island, his parents maintained that he was born one day later, making him a Fourth of July baby just like the “Yankee doodle boy” of his song.

The life of a performer—Cohan r