Canadian National Anthem: “O Canada”

Introduction

“O Canada” is the national anthem of Canada. It is a patriotic song celebrating the country’s history, culture, and values. The anthem is sung in both French and English, and it is a symbol of national unity.

History of the Anthem

The original French lyrics of “O Canada” were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier in 1880. The music was composed by Calixa Lavallée, a French-Canadian composer. The anthem was first performed at a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day ceremony in Quebec City on June 24, 1880.

The English lyrics of “O Canada” were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. Weir’s lyrics were based on Routhier’s original French lyrics, but he made some changes to make them more accessible to English speakers. For example, he changed the line “Car ton bras sait porter l’épée” (Because your arm knows how to wield the sword) to “True patriot love in all of us command.”

The Canadian government officially adopted “O Canada” as the national anthem in 1980. The anthem was revised again in 2018 when the gender-neutral pronoun “them” was substituted for the masculine pronoun “us” in the line “True patriot love in all of us command.”

Lyrics of the Anthem

The official English lyrics of “O Canada” are as follows:

O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all of us command. With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North, strong and free! From far and wide, O Canada, We stand on guard for thee. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

The official French lyrics of “O Canada” are as follows:

Ô Canada! Terre de nos aïeux, Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux! Car ton bras sait porter l’épée, Il sait porter la croix! Ton histoire est une épopée Des plus brillants exploits. Et ta valeur, de foi trempée, Protégera nos foyers et nos droits. Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.

Significance of the Anthem

“O Canada” is a symbol of Canadian national identity and pride. It is often sung at official events, such as the opening of Parliament and the Olympic Games. The anthem is also a popular choice for weddings and other celebrations.

The anthem’s lyrics celebrate Canada’s natural beauty, strong and free people, and commitment to freedom and democracy. The anthem also pays tribute to Canada’s history and its diverse cultures.

How to Sing the Anthem

The correct way to sing “O Canada” is to stand at attention with your right hand over your heart. You should sing the anthem in a clear and confident voice. If you are unfamiliar with the lyrics, you can find them online or in a hymnal.

Climax

“O Canada” is a beautiful and stirring anthem that celebrates the best of Canada. It is a song that all Canadians can be proud to sing.

In addition to the information above, here are some other interesting facts about the Canadian national anthem:

• The anthem’s French lyrics were written first, and the English lyrics were translated later.
• The anthem was originally written in the key of G major, but it is now more commonly sung in the key of C major.
• The anthem has been translated into over 20 languages.
• The anthem has been used in several films, including “The Canadian Conspiracy” and “The Day of the Locust”.

“O Canada” is a beloved anthem that all Canadians cherish. It is a song that celebrates the country’s history, culture, and values and symbolizes national unity.

FAQs

• Does Canada have their own national anthem?

  Yes, Canada has its own national anthem. It is called “O Canada”.

• Does Canada have two national anthems?

  Yes, Canada has two national anthems. The first is “O Canada”, which is the official national anthem. The second is “God Save the Queen”, which is the royal anthem.

• What is the official national anthem of Canada?

  The official national anthem of Canada is “O Canada”. It has two versions, one in French and one in English. The French lyrics were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier in 1880, and the English lyrics were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908.

• What is the royal anthem of Canada?

  The royal anthem of Canada is “God Save the Queen”. It is the same anthem that is used as the national anthem of the United Kingdom. It is played in the presence of the Canadian monarch, other members of the Royal Family, and as part of the salute accorded to the Governor General of Canada and provincial lieutenant governors.