What Does the "National Anthem" Mean?

National anthems vary in importance, significance and general knowledge from nation to nation. Some national anthems have historical gravity while others come from chants used at sporting and athletic events and competitions.

Function

According to the National Anthems of the World Organization, national anthems are "the equivalent in music of a country's motto, crest or flag." Different countries employ their national anthems in varying ways. Some sing it before theater events while others recite it when important political or governmental figures are present.

Types

National anthems can be split into five different categories: marches, folk, operatic, hymns and fanfares. Hymns and marches mostly occur in European nations. South American countries often sing operatic national anthems. The Middle East is fond of fanfares and Eastern countries rely on folk songs.

Fun Facts

According to the National Anthems of the World Organization, the oldest national anthems belong to Japan and the Netherlands. As of 2010, Cyprus is the only country that uses the national anthem of another nation, Greece. Uganda holds the record for the shortest national anthem at eight bars of music. Uruguay outpaces Uganda by 97 bars.

References

• National Anthems of the World Organization: Origins of National Anthems
• National Anthems of the World Organization: Facts