March of the Volunteers facts for kids
The song called March of the Volunteers is the national anthem of the People's Republic of China. A national anthem is a special song that represents a country. It often tells about the country's history, struggles, and hopes. This song is very important to the people of China.
If you can read Chinese, the text of the song is as follows:
Official Lyrics:
起来，不愿做奴隶的人们！
把我们的血肉筑成我们新的长城！
中华民族到了最危险的时候，
每个人被迫着发出最后的吼声。
起来！起来！起来！
我们万众一心，
冒着敌人的炮火，前进！
冒着敌人的炮火，前进！
前进！前进！进！
English Translation:
Arise! All who refuse to be slaves!
Let our flesh and blood become our new Great Wall!
As the Chinese nation faces its greatest peril,
All forcefully expend their last cries.
Arise! Arise! Arise!
Our million hearts beat as one,
Brave the enemy's fire, March on!
Brave the enemy's fire, March on!
March on! March on! On!
Contents
The Story Behind China's National Anthem
The "March of the Volunteers" was not always China's national anthem. It started as a theme song for a movie. This movie was made during a very difficult time for China.
From Movie Theme to National Song
The song was first heard in a 1935 movie called Children of Troubled Times. This film was about people fighting against invaders. The movie wanted to inspire people to stand up for their country. The song quickly became very popular. It gave people hope and courage during a tough period.
The Song's Creators: Tian Han and Nie Er
The words for the song were written by a famous poet named Tian Han. He wrote the lyrics to inspire people to protect their homeland. The music was composed by Nie Er, a talented musician. Together, they created a powerful song that moved many hearts. Sadly, Nie Er passed away shortly after composing the song.
The Powerful Words of the Anthem
The lyrics of the "March of the Volunteers" are very strong. They talk about people rising up and working together. The song encourages everyone to build a "new Great Wall" with their courage. This means protecting their country with all their might. It speaks of facing danger and moving forward bravely. The repeated words "Arise!" and "March on!" are calls to action.
Why This Song is Important
The "March of the Volunteers" became the official national anthem of the People's Republic of China in 1949. This was when the new country was founded. The song reminds people of China's history and its spirit of unity. It represents the strength and determination of the Chinese people. It is played at important events and celebrations.
Images for kids
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Nie Er (left) and Tian Han (right), photographed in Shanghai in 1933
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The poster for Children of Troubled Times (1935), which used the march as its theme song
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Sheet music from Appendix 4 of Macau's Law No.5/1999.
See also
In Spanish: Marcha de los voluntarios para niños
