La Bayamesa facts for kids
"La Bayamesa" or "El Himno de Bayamo" is the national anthem of Cuba. It is also known as "The Bayamo Song." This important song has been Cuba's official anthem since 1902. It was first sung in 1868 during a big battle called the Battle of Bayamo.
| English: The Bayamo Song | |
|---|---|
| National anthem of |  Cuba |
| Lyrics | Perucho Figueredo, 1868 |
| Music | Antonio Rodriguez-Ferrer, 1898 |
| Adopted | 1902 |
Contents
History of La Bayamesa
The words and music for "La Bayamesa" were written by Perucho Figueredo. He was a Cuban freedom fighter. Figueredo wrote the song in 1868. This was during Cuba's fight for independence from Spain. The song was first performed during the Battle of Bayamo. This battle was a key moment in the fight for freedom.
Figueredo was later captured by the Spanish. He was executed for his role in the rebellion. Even after his death, his song lived on. In 1898, a Cuban conductor named Antonio Rodriguez-Ferrer helped arrange the song's music. "La Bayamesa" officially became Cuba's national anthem in 1902.
Meaning of the Lyrics
The lyrics of "La Bayamesa" are a call to action. They encourage Cubans to fight bravely for their homeland. The song speaks about the pride of the Cuban people. It also talks about the importance of freedom. The anthem reminds listeners that dying for their country is a noble act. It says that living in chains is a life of shame.
Only the first part of the song is the official anthem. It tells the people of Bayamo to run to battle. It says their homeland is proud of them. It encourages them not to fear a glorious death. This is because dying for their country means living forever. It urges them to listen to the sound of the bugle. It calls brave people to arms.
Official Spanish Lyrics
The first verse below is the official part of the anthem.
¡Al combate, corred, bayameses,
Que la patria os contempla orgullosa;
No temáis una muerte gloriosa,
Que morir por la patria es vivir.
En cadenas vivir es vivir
En afrenta y oprobio sumidos.
Del clarín escuchad el sonido:
¡A las armas, valientes, corred!
English Translation
Here is the English translation of the official verse.
To arms, quickly, ye Bayamesans!
As the homeland looks proudly to you;
don't fear a glorious death,
for to die for the homeland is to live.
To live in shackles is to live
mired in shame and disgrace,
now hear the sound of the bugle;
Quickly, ye brave, to arms!
See also
In Spanish: La Bayamesa para niños
