National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇸🇪 Sweden

The national anthem of Sweden is called: « Du gamla, Du fria ».

Continent: Europe

Bordering Countries:
– 🇫🇮 Finland
– 🇳🇴 Norway

History of « Du gamla, Du fria »

« Du gamla, Du fria » (Thou Ancient, Thou Free) is the de facto national anthem of Sweden. The anthem reflects the country’s natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1844: The lyrics of « Du gamla, Du fria » were written by Richard Dybeck, a Swedish jurist, antiquarian, and lyricist. The poem was originally titled « Sång till Norden » (Song to the North).
  • 1844: The music for the anthem is based on a traditional Swedish folk tune. Dybeck adapted the melody to fit his lyrics.
  • 1893: The song gained widespread popularity after being performed at the Swedish General Art and Industrial Exposition in Stockholm. It gradually became recognized as the national anthem, although it has never been officially adopted by law.

Anecdotes

  • Unofficial Status: Despite its widespread recognition and use, « Du gamla, Du fria » has never been officially adopted as the national anthem by the Swedish government. It remains the de facto anthem due to its popularity and historical significance.
  • Cultural Heritage: The lyrics of the anthem celebrate Sweden’s natural landscapes, including its forests, mountains, and lakes. This reflects the deep connection of the Swedish people to their land and environment.
  • Cultural Significance: « Du gamla, Du fria » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Swedish people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Swedes.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Swedish

Du gamla, Du fria, Du fjällhöga nord,
Du tysta, Du glädjerika sköna!
Jag hälsar Dig, vänaste land uppå jord,
Din sol, Din himmel, Dina ängder gröna.

Du tronar på minnen från fornstora dar,
Då ärat Ditt namn flög över jorden.
Jag vet att Du är och Du blir vad Du var.
Ja, jag vill leva, jag vill dö i Norden.

In English (translation)

Thou ancient, Thou free, Thou mountainous north,
Thou quiet, Thou joyful beauty!
I greet Thee, loveliest land upon earth,
Thy sun, Thy sky, Thy meadows green.

Thou art enthroned upon memories of great olden days,
When honored Thy name flew across the earth.
I know that Thou art and wilt remain what Thou wast.
Yes, I want to live, I want to die in the North.

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