National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇲🇭 Marshall Islands

he national anthem of Marshall Islands is called: « Forever Marshall Islands ».

Continent: Oceania

In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇰🇮 Kiribati, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇷 Nauru, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇼 Palau, 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇹🇻 Tuvalu, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu

History of « Forever Marshall Islands »

« Forever Marshall Islands » is the national anthem of the Marshall Islands. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1989: The lyrics and music for « Forever Marshall Islands » were composed by former President Amata Kabua, a key figure in the country’s political and cultural life.
  • 1991: The anthem was officially adopted by the Marshall Islands government in 1991.

Anecdotes

  • Presidential Composition: Amata Kabua, who composed the anthem, was the first President of the Marshall Islands. His deep connection to the country and its people is reflected in the anthem’s lyrics and melody, which celebrate the nation’s beauty and resilience.
  • Cultural Significance: « Forever Marshall Islands » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Marshallese people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among the citizens.
  • Symbol of Independence: The adoption of the anthem in 1991 was a significant moment in the history of the Marshall Islands, symbolizing the country’s sovereignty and national pride following its independence from the United States-administered Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands in 1986.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Marshallese

Aelōn̄ eo ao ḷoḷo ḷo̗k in mālōtlōtḷọk
Kin iọkwe eṃṃan ad, Kōrā eo ao in aō.
Ḷoṃṃanļo̧k ad, ḷoṃṃanļo̧k ad, ḷoṃṃanļo̧k ad,
Aelōn̄ eo ao in aō.
Aelōn̄ eo ao in aō.
Aelōn̄ eo ao in aō.
Aelōn̄ eo ao in aō.
Aelōn̄ eo ao in aō.

Translated in English

My island lies o'er the ocean;
Like a wreath of flowers upon the sea;
With a light of heaven's own love,
Shining with beauty bright and free.
Forever more, forever more,
Forever more, forever more,
Forever more, forever more,
Forever more, forever more.

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