The national anthem of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is called: « God Save the King/Queen ».
Continent: Europe
Bordering Countries:
– 🇮🇪 Ireland
History of « God Save the King/Queen »
« God Save the King » (or « God Save the Queen » when the monarch is female) is the national anthem of the United Kingdom. It is one of the oldest national anthems in the world and has been a symbol of British national pride and loyalty to the monarchy for centuries.
Key Dates and People
- 1745: The anthem was first performed in public at the Drury Lane Theatre in London during the Jacobite rising. The lyrics are attributed to various authors, but the most commonly accepted version was written by Henry Carey.
- 19th Century: The anthem became widely recognized and was adopted as the national anthem of the United Kingdom. It also influenced the national anthems of other countries, including the United States (« My Country, ‘Tis of Thee ») and Germany (« Heil dir im Siegerkranz »).
- 1952: The anthem’s title and lyrics changed to « God Save the Queen » upon the accession of Queen Elizabeth II. It will revert to « God Save the King » when a male monarch ascends the throne.
Anecdotes
- Multiple Verses: The anthem has several verses, but typically only the first verse is sung at public events. The additional verses are less well-known and are rarely performed.
- International Influence: « God Save the King/Queen » has been used as the national or royal anthem in various Commonwealth countries and has influenced the anthems of other nations. It is also the royal anthem of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Historical Performances: The anthem has been performed at numerous significant historical events, including coronations, state funerals, and major sporting events. It is a staple at British public ceremonies and celebrations.
Full Lyrics
In English
God save our gracious King!
Long live our noble King!
God save the King!
Send him victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us,
God save the King!
O Lord our God arise,
Scatter his enemies,
And make them fall:
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish tricks,
On Thee our hopes we fix,
God save us all!
Thy choicest gifts in store,
On him be pleased to pour,
Long may he reign:
May he defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the King!In English (When the Monarch is Female)
God save our gracious Queen!
Long live our noble Queen!
God save the Queen!
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us,
God save the Queen!
O Lord our God arise,
Scatter her enemies,
And make them fall:
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish tricks,
On Thee our hopes we fix,
God save us all!
Thy choicest gifts in store,
On her be pleased to pour,
Long may she reign:
May she defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the Queen!« God Save the King/Queen » remains a powerful symbol of British national identity and loyalty to the monarchy. Its enduring legacy and widespread influence underscore its significance in British culture and history.
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