National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇵🇱 Poland

The national anthem of Poland is called: « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego ».

Continent: Europe

Bordering Countries:
🇧🇾 Belarus
🇨🇿 Czechia
🇩🇪 Germany
🇱🇹 Lithuania
🇷🇺 Russian Federation
🇸🇰 Slovakia
🇺🇦 Ukraine

History of « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego »

« Mazurek Dąbrowskiego » (Dąbrowski’s Mazurka) is the national anthem of Poland. The anthem reflects the country’s enduring spirit, its struggle for independence, and the deep sense of national pride among its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1797: The lyrics of « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego » were written by Józef Wybicki, a Polish poet, jurist, and political activist. The song was originally titled « Pieśń Legionów Polskich we Włoszech » (Song of the Polish Legions in Italy).
  • 1797: The music for the anthem is based on a traditional mazurka, a Polish folk dance, and was composed by an unknown author. The song quickly became popular among Polish soldiers and patriots.
  • 1927: « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego » was officially adopted as the national anthem of Poland, following the country’s restoration of independence after World War I.

Anecdotes

  • Napoleonic Wars: The anthem was written during the Napoleonic Wars, when Polish soldiers, led by General Jan Henryk Dąbrowski, were fighting alongside Napoleon’s forces in hopes of regaining Poland’s independence. The lyrics express the hope and determination of the Polish people to restore their homeland.
  • Symbol of Resistance: Throughout Poland’s tumultuous history, including partitions, occupations, and uprisings, « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego » has served as a symbol of resistance and national identity. It has inspired generations of Poles to continue the struggle for freedom.
  • Cultural Significance: « Mazurek Dąbrowskiego » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Polish people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Poles.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Polish

Jeszcze Polska nie zginęła,
Kiedy my żyjemy.
Co nam obca przemoc wzięła,
Szablą odbierzemy.

Marsz, marsz, Dąbrowski,
Z ziemi włoskiej do Polski.
Za twoim przewodem
Złączym się z narodem.

In English (translation)

Poland has not yet perished,
So long as we still live.
What foreign force has taken from us,
We shall with sabre retrieve.

March, march, Dąbrowski,
From the Italian land to Poland.
Under your command
We shall rejoin the nation.

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