The national anthem of Uruguay is called: « Himno Nacional de Uruguay ».
Continent: America
Bordering Countries:
– 🇦🇷 Argentina
– 🇧🇷 Brazil
History of « Himno Nacional de Uruguay »
« Himno Nacional de Uruguay » (National Anthem of Uruguay) is the national anthem of Uruguay. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its struggles for independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1833: The lyrics of the anthem were written by Francisco Acuña de Figueroa, a Uruguayan poet who also wrote the national anthem of Paraguay.
- 1845: The music was composed by Francisco José Debali, a Hungarian-born composer, with contributions from Fernando Quijano.
- 1848: The anthem was first performed publicly on July 19, 1845, and was officially adopted by the Uruguayan government on July 25, 1848.
Anecdotes
- Longest Anthem: The « Himno Nacional de Uruguay » is known for being one of the longest national anthems in terms of duration. However, typically only the first verse and the chorus are performed on official occasions.
- Composer’s Contribution: Francisco José Debali, the composer, was a prominent figure in Uruguayan music. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Uruguayan people.
- Cultural Significance: « Himno Nacional de Uruguay » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Uruguayan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Uruguayans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Spanish
Orientales, la Patria o la Tumba,
Libertad o con gloria morir.
Es el voto que el alma pronuncia,
Y que heroicos sabremos cumplir.
Libertad, libertad Orientales,
Este grito a la Patria salvó.
Que a sus bravos en fieras batallas
De entusiasmo sublime inflamó.
De este don sacrosanto la gloria
Merecimos: tiranos ¡temblad!
Libertad en la lid clamaremos,
Y muriendo, también libertad!
Dominado la Iberia dos mundos
Ostentaba su altivo poder
Y a sus plantas cautivo yacía
El Oriente sin nombre ni ser.Translated in English
Easterners, the Fatherland or the grave,
Liberty or with glory we die.
It is the vow that the soul pronounces,
And which we shall heroically fulfill.
Liberty, liberty Easterners,
This cry saved the Fatherland.
That in fierce battles to its brave
It inflamed with sublime enthusiasm.
Of this sacred gift the glory
We deserved: tyrants, tremble!
Liberty in the fight we shall cry,
And dying, also liberty!
Dominating Iberia, two worlds
Displayed its haughty power
And at its feet captive lay
The East without name or being.Sources: