The national anthem of Norway is called: « Ja, vi elsker dette landet ».
Continent: Europe
Bordering Countries:
– 🇫🇮 Finland
– 🇷🇺 Russian Federation
– 🇸🇪 Sweden
History of « Ja, vi elsker dette landet »
« Ja, vi elsker dette landet » (Yes, We Love This Country) is the national anthem of Norway. The anthem reflects the country’s natural beauty, its struggle for independence, and the enduring spirit of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1859: The lyrics of « Ja, vi elsker dette landet » were written by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, a Norwegian poet, playwright, and Nobel laureate in Literature.
- 1864: The music for the anthem was composed by Rikard Nordraak, a Norwegian composer and a cousin of Bjørnson. The anthem was first performed publicly on May 17, 1864, during the 50th anniversary of the Norwegian Constitution.
- 1864: « Ja, vi elsker dette landet » quickly gained popularity and became the de facto national anthem of Norway, although it was not officially adopted by law.
Anecdotes
- Constitution Day: The anthem was first performed on May 17, 1864, which is celebrated as Norway’s Constitution Day. This day commemorates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814 and is a significant national holiday.
- Patriotic Symbol: The anthem became a symbol of Norwegian patriotism and national pride, especially during the period of union with Sweden (1814-1905). It played a crucial role in fostering a sense of national identity and unity.
- Cultural Significance: « Ja, vi elsker dette landet » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Norwegian people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Norwegians.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Norwegian
Ja, vi elsker dette landet,
som det stiger frem,
furet, værbitt over vannet,
med de tusen hjem.
Elsker, elsker det og tenker
på vår far og mor
og den saganatt som senker
drømmer på vår jord.
Norske mann i hus og hytte,
takk din store Gud!
Landet ville han beskytte,
skjønt det mørkt så ut.
Alt hva fedrene har kjempet,
mødrene har grett,
har den Herre stille lempet
så vi vant vår rett.In English (translation)
Yes, we love this country
as it rises forth,
rugged, weathered, above the sea,
with the thousands of homes.
Love, love it and think
of our father and mother
and the saga night that sends
dreams to our earth.
Norwegian man in house and cabin,
thank your great God!
The country he wanted to protect,
even though it looked dark.
Everything our fathers have fought for,
our mothers have wept,
has the Lord quietly moved
so we won our rights.Sources: