Why was God Bless America cut from Yip Yip Yaphank?

"God Bless America" was cut from the original 1918 production of Yip Yip Yaphank due to concerns about its political implications during World War I. The song was seen as too patriotic and potentially divisive in a time when the country was grappling with issues of loyalty and dissent. Additionally, the creators wanted to focus on satirical and comedic elements rather than overtly nationalistic themes. The song later gained popularity and became a staple of American patriotism in subsequent years.