A las Barricadas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids "A las Barricadas" |
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A las Barricadas
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| Song | |
| Language | Spanish |
| Published | Original music from "Warszawianka" composed in 1879. Lyrics written in 1936. |
| Recorded | 1936 |
| Length | 1:13 |
| Composer(s) | Józef Pławiński |
| Lyricist(s) | Valeriano Orobón Fernández based on original lyrics by Wacław Święcicki |
"A las Barricadas" ("To the Barricades") was a very popular song during the Spanish Civil War. It was sung by Spanish anarchists. The song uses the music from an older Polish song called "Whirlwinds of Danger". This music was composed by Józef Pławiński in 1879. New Spanish lyrics were written in 1936 by Valeriano Orobón Fernández. These lyrics were partly based on the original Polish words.
The song mentions "The Confederation" at the end. This refers to the CNT. The CNT was a very large workers' group in Spain. It was also the main anarchist organization. From 1936 to 1939, the CNT strongly opposed Francisco Franco's military coup. This coup was against the Spanish Republic.
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About "A las Barricadas"
This song became a symbol of hope and resistance. It was sung by people fighting for their beliefs during a difficult time in Spain. The lyrics talk about freedom and standing up against injustice.
What is the song about?
The song's title, "To the Barricades," refers to walls or barriers built quickly. These were used to defend streets during fights. The lyrics encourage people to stand together and fight for what they believe in. They speak of dark times but also of the importance of freedom.
The song's message is about courage and unity. It calls on working people to join the fight. The goal was to overcome those who wanted to stop progress.
Who wrote the music and lyrics?
The music for "A las Barricadas" comes from a Polish song. This song was called "Warszawianka" or "Whirlwinds of Danger." It was composed by Józef Pławiński in 1879.
The Spanish lyrics were written much later, in 1936. Valeriano Orobón Fernández wrote them. He used some ideas from the original Polish lyrics. These were written by Wacław Święcicki.
The Spanish Civil War and the CNT
The Spanish Civil War was a big conflict in Spain from 1936 to 1939. It was a fight between different groups. One side was the Spanish Republic. The other side was led by Francisco Franco, who wanted to take control.
The CNT was a very important group during this war. It was a large union for workers. It was also the main anarchist group in Spain. Anarchists believe in societies without strict government control. The CNT played a big part in fighting against Franco's forces. "A las Barricadas" became their anthem.
Lyrics in English
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Black storms shake the air |
Other artists who covered the song
Many artists have performed their own versions of "A las Barricadas." Some of them include:
- Bandista (with the name "Haydi Barikata")
- Jean-Marc Leclercq
- Pascal Comelade
- Victor Manuel and Ana Belén (as a duet piece)
- Los Muertos de Cristo
- Feminazgûl
See also
In Spanish: A las barricadas para niños
- Songs of the Spanish Civil War
