The national anthem of São Tome and Príncipe is called: « Independência total ».
Continent: Africa
History of « Independência total »
« Independência total » (Total Independence) is the national anthem of São Tomé and Príncipe. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1975: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Alda Neves da Graça do Espírito Santo, a prominent São Toméan poet and politician. The music was composed by Manuel dos Santos Barreto de Sousa e Almeida. The anthem was officially adopted on July 12, 1975, the same day São Tomé and Príncipe gained independence from Portuguese colonial rule.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « Independência total » was first performed during the celebrations of São Tomé and Príncipe’s independence on July 12, 1975. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of the country, symbolizing its newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Legacy: Manuel dos Santos Barreto de Sousa e Almeida, the composer, played a significant role in shaping the musical identity of São Tomé and Príncipe. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works.
- Lyricist’s Contribution: Alda Neves da Graça do Espírito Santo, the lyricist, infused the anthem with a deep sense of patriotism and reverence for the São Toméan homeland. Her words reflect the aspirations and pride of the São Toméan people.
- Cultural Significance: The anthem is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the São Toméan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the people of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Full Lyrics
In Portuguese
Independência total,
Glorioso canto do povo,
Independência total,
Hino sagrado de combate.
Com fervor, com vigor
Vamos todos cantar
O fulgor da esperança
Numa nova vida de paz e amor.
Estribilho:
Levantemos nossas vozes
Cheias de força e de fé,
S. Tomé e Príncipe
Ilhas de maravilhas.
Brilha a bandeira ao vento
Cruza o céu a nova aurora,
S. Tomé e Príncipe
Juventude, nosso amor.
Independência total,
Glorioso canto do povo,
Independência total,
Hino sagrado de combate.
Com fervor, com vigor
Vamos todos cantar
O fulgor da esperança
Numa nova vida de paz e amor.
Estribilho:
Levantemos nossas vozes
Cheias de força e de fé,
S. Tomé e Príncipe
Ilhas de maravilhas.
Brilha a bandeira ao vento
Cruza o céu a nova aurora,
S. Tomé e Príncipe
Juventude, nosso amor.Translated in English
Total independence,
Glorious song of the people,
Total independence,
Sacred hymn of combat.
With fervor, with vigor
Let us all sing
The brilliance of hope
In a new life of peace and love.
Chorus:
Let us raise our voices
Full of strength and faith,
São Tomé and Príncipe
Islands of wonders.
The flag shines in the wind
A new dawn crosses the sky,
São Tomé and Príncipe
Youth, our love.
Total independence,
Glorious song of the people,
Total independence,
Sacred hymn of combat.
With fervor, with vigor
Let us all sing
The brilliance of hope
In a new life of peace and love.
Chorus:
Let us raise our voices
Full of strength and faith,
São Tomé and Príncipe
Islands of wonders.
The flag shines in the wind
A new dawn crosses the sky,
São Tomé and Príncipe
Youth, our love.Sources: