Commentary
Newly established countries waste no time in embracing new patriotic symbols. As soon as independence is declared, a new flag is raised, a new coat of arms is designed, and a national anthem is commissioned.
For example, when the French monarchy fell during the revolution in the 1790s, a new tricolored flag replaced the old Bourbon fleur-de-lis flag, and the citizens adopted “La Marseillaise” as their anthem. Similarly, when the Republic of South Africa emerged post-apartheid, new national symbols like the flag, coat of arms, and anthem “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” were quickly established.
Interestingly, Canada took over a century to officially adopt its national anthem.
Despite various attempts to create an English version, it wasn’t until 1908 that a rendition of “O Canada” by Robert Stanley Weir gained popularity among those seeking a proud yet inclusive national anthem. Weir, a lawyer and poet, crafted new lyrics to honor Quebec City’s founding anniversary.
Anthems often contain martial themes. While “O Canada” emphasizes standing guard, other anthems like the American “Star-Spangled Banner” and the Mexican anthem evoke wartime imagery.
It wasn’t until 1980 that “O Canada” was officially adopted as the national anthem, a century after its creation. In 2018, after years of debate, the English version underwent changes to be more inclusive.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Can you please rewrite this sentence?
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