National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇱🇷 Liberia

The national anthem of Liberia is called: « All Hail, Liberia, Hail! ».

Continent: Africa

Bordering Countries:
🇨🇮 Côte d’Ivoire
🇬🇳 Guinea
🇸🇱 Sierra Leone

History of « All Hail, Liberia, Hail! »

« All Hail, Liberia, Hail! » is the national anthem of Liberia. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1847: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Daniel Bashiel Warner, who later became the third President of Liberia. The music was composed by Olmstead Luca. The anthem was officially adopted in 1847, the same year Liberia declared its independence from the American Colonization Society.

Anecdotes

  • Historical Significance: « All Hail, Liberia, Hail! » is one of the oldest national anthems in the world, reflecting Liberia’s unique history as a nation founded by freed American and Caribbean slaves. The anthem has been a symbol of national pride and unity since its adoption.
  • Composer’s Legacy: Daniel Bashiel Warner, the lyricist, played a significant role in Liberia’s early political landscape. His contributions to the anthem and his leadership as President are celebrated as part of Liberia’s national heritage. Olmstead Luca, the composer, contributed to the musical identity of the nation.
  • Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Liberian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Liberians.
  • Symbol of Unity: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize freedom, unity, and progress, reflecting the aspirations of the Liberian people as they embarked on their journey as an independent nation.

Full Lyrics

In English

All hail, Liberia, hail!
All hail, Liberia, hail!
This glorious land of liberty
Shall long be ours.
Though new her name,
Green be her fame,
And mighty be her powers,
And mighty be her powers.

In joy and gladness
With our hearts united,
We'll shout the freedom
Of a race benighted.

Long live Liberia, happy land!
A home of glorious liberty,
By God's command!
A home of glorious liberty,
By God's command!

All hail, Liberia, hail!
All hail, Liberia, hail!
In union strong success is sure
We cannot fail!
With God above
Our rights to prove
We will o'er all prevail,
We will o'er all prevail!

With heart and hand
Our country's cause defending,
We'll meet the foe
With valour unpretending.

Long live Liberia, happy land!
A home of glorious liberty,
By God's command!
A home of glorious liberty,
By God's command!

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