What is the national anthem of Canada?
“O CANADA” is the national anthem of the country of Canada. It was on 24 June, 1880 that the song was first performed. However this song was not proclaimed as a national anthem till 1 July, 1980, after hundred years of it being sung for the first time. Calixa Lavallee was the music composer for the song. Lots of English versions was composed before finally settling for the one that is currently the national anthem. The version of the song on which the English lyrics have been based was composed by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. Some of the few changes that were recommended by a Joint Committee of the House of Commons and the Senate in 1968 were included in the official English version. The French lyrics had remained unchanged.
Sometimes “O Canada” is sung in the beginning of an event or a ceremony, and often at the end. It depends upon the will of the organizers of that particular event. The Canadians generally, show their mark of respect to the national anthem by standing up when the national anthem is being played. Civilians usually take their hats off during the playing of the song.
Short version of the National Anthem:
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
O Canada glorious and free!
We stand on guard for rights and liberty.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
