Today is National Anthem Day! In the US, our National Anthem is the “Star-Spangled
Banner.” Most Americans know every word by heart, and the anthem is sung at
nearly every major event that takes place within the US.
Since we all know the story of our own anthem, we thought
today would be a good day to explore the anthems that are sung around the world
by other countries. We know how much our anthem means to us,
how it inspires and encourages all Americans. So let's in someone else’s
shoes today, and take a look at what they sing about!
Let’s just start with our neighbors – Canada and Mexico.
In Canada, the national anthem is often sung in French,
although an English version was created in 1906. The song focuses on every Canadian’s
inspiration to guard their country and their homes. Listen to the song
here,
and read the lyrics
here.
In Mexico, the national anthem is in Spanish, but it shares
similar themes to the Canadian national anthem. In Mexico, the anthem describes
Mexican bravery in history and the need for protection, again, for both country
and people. Listen to the anthem
here, and read the lyrics
here.
Finally, we wanted to talk about one last national anthem
in honor of a book we love here at Peachtree (you had to
expect us to come back to books!).
In
14 Cows for America,
author
Carmen Agra Deedy tells the story of a young man from Kenya who travels
back to his hometown in order to tell the tragedy of September 11
th,
which he experienced while living in New York City. The village responds in
kindness and compassion, giving to the American diplomat a gift of 14 cows, the
life and livelihood of their people.
Listen to the Kenyan national anthem
here, and read the
lyrics
here.
Sometimes we forget how much we have in common with the countries
around us. Our anthems reveal that each of these nations desires justice, peace, and
unity. We can celebrate our great country’s history, but also remember the
countries, like Kenya, who have stood with us throughout our history.
Which other national anthems have you heard? Tell us what
you learn from them!
Labels: 14 Cows for America