The national anthem of Paraguay is called: « Paraguayos, República o Muerte ».
Continent: America
Bordering Countries:
– 🇦🇷 Argentina
– 🇧🇴 Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
– 🇧🇷 Brazil
History of « Paraguayos, República o Muerte »
« Paraguayos, República o Muerte » (Paraguayans, Republic or Death) is the national anthem of Paraguay. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its struggles for independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1846: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Francisco Acuña de Figueroa, a Uruguayan poet who also wrote the national anthems of Uruguay and Paraguay.
- 1846: The music was composed by Francisco José Debali, a Hungarian-born composer who also contributed to the Uruguayan national anthem.
- 1934: The anthem was officially adopted by the Paraguayan government on November 20, 1934.
Anecdotes
- Shared Heritage: Francisco Acuña de Figueroa, the lyricist, and Francisco José Debali, the composer, were also responsible for the national anthem of Uruguay. This shared heritage highlights the close cultural and historical ties between the two countries.
- First Performance: The anthem was first performed publicly in 1846, shortly after its composition. It quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of national identity and unity for Paraguay.
- Cultural Significance: « Paraguayos, República o Muerte » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Paraguayan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Paraguayans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Spanish
A los pueblos de América, infausto
tres centurias un cetro oprimió,
mas un día soberbia surgiendo,
¡basta! dijo, y el cetro rompió.
Nuestros padres, lidiando grandiosos,
ilustraron su gloria marcial;
y trozada la augusta diadema,
enalzaron el gorro triunfal.
Paraguayos, República o muerte!
Nuestro brío nos dio libertad;
ni opresores, ni siervos alientan,
donde reinan unión e igualdad.
Unión e igualdad, unión e igualdad.Translated in English
To the peoples of America, unfortunate
for three centuries a scepter oppressed,
but one day, rising in pride,
it said, "Enough!" and broke the scepter.
Our fathers, fighting grandly,
illuminated their martial glory;
and breaking the august diadem,
they raised the triumphant cap.
Paraguayans, Republic or death!
Our courage gave us freedom;
neither oppressors nor servants breathe,
where union and equality reign.
Union and equality, union and equality.ources: