The national anthem of Papua New Guinea is called: « O Arise, All You Sons ».
Continent: Oceania
In the same continent: 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇫🇯 Fiji, 🇰🇮 Kiribati 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands, 🇫🇲 Micronesia (Federated States of), 🇳🇷 Nauru, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇵🇼 Palau, 🇼🇸 Samoa, 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands, 🇹🇴 Tonga, 🇹🇻 Tuvalu, 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
History of « O Arise, All You Sons »
« O Arise, All You Sons » is the national anthem of Papua New Guinea. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its journey to independence, and the unity of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1975: The lyrics and music for « O Arise, All You Sons » were composed by Thomas Shacklady, an Australian who was living in Papua New Guinea at the time.
- 1975: It was officially adopted on September 16, 1975, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s declaration of independence from Australian administration.
Anecdotes
- Independence Celebration: « O Arise, All You Sons » was first performed during the independence celebrations on September 16, 1975. The anthem marked a significant moment in the history of Papua New Guinea, symbolizing the country’s newfound sovereignty and national pride.
- Composer’s Contribution: Thomas Shacklady, the composer of the anthem, is celebrated for his contributions to the music and culture of Papua New Guinea. His composition for the anthem is considered one of his most significant works, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Papua New Guinean people.
- Cultural Significance: « O Arise, All You Sons » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Papua New Guinean people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Papua New Guineans.
Lyrics Excerpt
In English
O arise all you sons of this land,
Let us sing of our joy to be free,
Praising God and rejoicing to be
Papua New Guinea.
Shout our name from the mountains to seas
Papua New Guinea;
Let us raise our voices and proclaim
Papua New Guinea.
Now give thanks to the good Lord above
For His kindness, His wisdom and love,
For this land of our fathers so free
Papua New Guinea.
Shout again for the whole world to hear
Papua New Guinea;
We're independent and we're free,
Papua New Guinea.