National Anthem History
A country’s national anthem history can be as fascinating as the song itself. As the following will show, some of the anthems have been inspired by events the composer witnessed, while others the product of writers and musicians.
Australia (“Advance Australia Fair”)
In 1973, a contest was held to determine what Australia’s national anthem would be. There were over 1,000 entries, but none proved satisfactory.
A poll was conducted by the government and the top choice was “Advance Australia Fair” written by Peter McCormick (1834-1916). It has a triadic structure and resembles mid 19th century songs. It became Australia’s official national anthem on April 11, 1984.
Germany (“Das Lied Der Deutschen”)
The anthem was composed by Franz Haydn (1732-1809) in 1797. The national anthem history of Germany began as the anthem of Austria. It began to be used in Germany in 1922.
The anthem was started with the poem “Deutschland, Deutschland uber alles” penned by August Hoffmann von Fallersleben (1798-1874). In 1952, the initial verse in the poem was replaced by the one on the third verse.
United States of America (“Star Spangled Banner”)
The words were set down on September 14 1814 by writer Francis Key (1779-1843). He was aboard a British ship in Baltimore trying to negotiate the release of some prisoners.
In the process he saw the Americans raise the Star Spangled Banner flag after fending off the British, who were trying to bomb Fort MacHenry, inspiring him to write the lyrics. A study of the US national anthem history will show it was officially adapted in 1931 as an Act of Congress.
Spain (“Marcha Real”)
Its composer is unknown, although some historians state it was composed by a German who presented it to King Frederick the Great. According to the story, Frederick gave the anthem to King Carlos of Spain In 1770 when he visited Germany.
Whatever its origin, “Marcha Real” became Spain’s official royal marching song. In 1870, a contest was held to decide on a new anthem, but none of the entries were acceptable. In 1942,”Marcha Real” was declared the national anthem of Spain.
Brazil (“Hino Nacional Brasileiro”)
A study of Brazil’s national anthem history will show the lyrics were written down by Francisco Silva (1795-1865) for King Pedro II. Silva also established the National Conservatory and the Philharmonic Orchestra in Rio de Janeiro.
The lyrics of the song were about love for the country. However, the lyrics also included references to political events in 1831. In 1922, new lyrics were added to the song to make it more contemporary. They were written by Joaquim Osorio Duque Estrada ((1870-1927).
Canada (“O Canada!”)
The lyrics were written by Adolphe Basile Brouthier (1839-1920). The music was composed by Calixa Lavallee (1842-1891). The song was written in 1880 on behalf of patriotic Canadians who wanted an anthem Canadians could identify with. There is also an English version written by Robert Stanley Weir (1856-1926).
The national anthem history cases stated here show how much they can speak volumes of a country’s history. It also shows how in some instances it took years before they were adopted for official use.