What is the oldest national anthem?

We have all heard these war songs transformed into symbols of peace and unity, these national anthems which resonate in stadiums, parliaments and even schoolyards. But have you ever wondered what the oldest national anthem is? Who wrote the first words who moved a nation whole? Hold on tight, because we’re about to take you on a musical journey through time.

God Protect the King: An ancient hymn with British origins

From national anthems the best known and oldest, “God Protect the King”, or “God Save the King” (or “God Save the Queen”, depending on the gender of the reigning monarch) is undoubtedly one of the most famous. Adopted by the United Kingdom During the 18th century, this song became a symbol of the British monarchy.

Henry Carey is generally credited with the authorship of the music and words of the anthem. However, the exact origin remains uncertain, especially since there are earlier versions of the hymn without words. One thing is certain: “God Save the King/Queen” has influenced many other anthems, including the United States’ anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

The Wilhelmus: a national anthem tinged with history

When we talk about the oldest national anthem, we cannot ignore the “Wilhelmus van Nassouwe”. This is theNational anthem of the Netherlands, often considered the oldest in the world. THE words of this singing dates back to the 16th century, during the Eighty Years’ War, a conflict which saw the United Provinces (the former name of the Netherlands) fight for independence against Spain.

The text of “Wilhelmus” is both a portrait of Prince William of Orange (Wilhelmus van Nassouwe) and an account of the beginnings of the Dutch Revolt. Although the anthem was not officially adopted until 1932, it has been sung since the 16th century, making it one of the world’s oldest national anthems.

La Marseillaise: a war song that became a national anthem

One of the hymns the best known in the world is undoubtedly “La Marseillaise”. Composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle in 1792, initially under the name “War Song for the Army of the Rhine”, “La Marseillaise” became the national anthem of France during the French Revolution.

Inspired by the ideals of freedom and fraternity, “La Marseillaise” was sung for the first time in Strasbourg, before being taken up by Marseille volunteers who were marching towards Paris, hence its name. Since then, its powerful text and its music catchy music made the hearts of the French nation and many other countries vibrate.

The oldest national anthem: a song that spans the centuries

At the end of this musical journey through the centuries, the answer to the question “What is the oldest national anthem?” appears to be “Wilhelmus van Nassouwe”, the national anthem of the Netherlands. However, it should be remembered that the date of official adoption of an anthem does not necessarily reflect its true age. After all, an anthem is more than just a song: it is the expression of a nation, the reflection of its history and its values.

Each National anthem has its own history, whether it is tinged with war, peace, the struggle for independence or love for the homeland. Whether it is “God Save the Queen”, “Marseillaise” or “Wilhelmus”, each anthem carries within it the echo of its past, like a song that spans the centuries.

In conclusion, while the national anthems continue to resonate in hearts and minds, let us remember that behind each note and each word there is a story, that of a people and its country. So the next time your country’s anthem plays, remember the people who wrote those words and what they mean. After all, it is through singing that we tell the story.