National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇲🇽 Mexico

The national anthem of Mexico is called: « Himno Nacional Mexicano ».

Continent: America

Bordering Countries:
🇧🇿 Belize
🇬🇹 Guatemala
🇺🇸 United States of America

History of « Himno Nacional Mexicano »

« Himno Nacional Mexicano » (Mexican National Anthem) is the national anthem of Mexico. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its struggles for independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1853: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Francisco González Bocanegra, a Mexican poet.
  • 1854: The music was composed by Jaime Nunó, a Spanish-born composer who was invited to Mexico by President Antonio López de Santa Anna.
  • 1854: The anthem was first performed publicly on September 15, 1854, in Mexico City.
  • 1943: The anthem was officially adopted by the Mexican government on February 20, 1943.

Anecdotes

  • Lyricist’s Reluctance: Francisco González Bocanegra was initially reluctant to participate in the national competition to write the anthem’s lyrics. His fiancée locked him in a room until he completed the verses, which he then submitted and won the competition.
  • Composer’s Invitation: Jaime Nunó was invited to Mexico by President Santa Anna to direct military bands. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant contributions to Mexican music.
  • Cultural Significance: « Himno Nacional Mexicano » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Mexican people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Mexicans.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Spanish

Mexicanos, al grito de guerra
el acero aprestad y el bridón,
y retiemble en sus centros la tierra
al sonoro rugir del cañón.

Y retiemble en sus centros la tierra
al sonoro rugir del cañón.

Ciña ¡Oh Patria! tus sienes de oliva
de la paz el arcángel divino,
que en el cielo tu eterno destino
por el dedo de Dios se escribió.

Mas si osare un extraño enemigo
profanar con su planta tu suelo,
piensa ¡Oh Patria querida! que el cielo
un soldado en cada hijo te dio.

Translated in English

Mexicans, at the cry of war
prepare the steel and the bridle,
and let the earth tremble at its core
to the resounding roar of the cannon.

And let the earth tremble at its core
to the resounding roar of the cannon.

Gird, oh Fatherland, your brow with olive
by the divine archangel of peace,
for your eternal destiny was written
in the heavens by the hand of God.

But if a foreign enemy would dare
to profane your ground with his step,
think, oh beloved Fatherland, that heaven
has given you a soldier in every son.

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