O Canada facts for kids
O Canada is the official national anthem of Canada. It is a very important song that represents the country and its people.
The music for "O Canada" was composed by Calixa Lavallée. The original French words were written by Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The song was first performed in French in 1880. Later, in 1908, Robert Stanley Weir wrote the English words for the song.
Even though people sang it for many years, "O Canada" officially became Canada's national anthem in 1980.
Contents
Understanding the Lyrics of O Canada
The national anthem has both English and French versions. It's interesting to know that the words in French and English do not mean exactly the same thing.
English Lyrics Explained
Here are the words to the English version of "O Canada":
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. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee; O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
This means: "Canada, our home and the country where we were born, you make all your people truly love you! With joy, we watch you grow and improve. You are the 'True North,' which means strong and free. Our citizens come from all over the world, and we promise to protect you and keep you safe. God, please keep our land wonderful and free! O Canada, we will always watch over you to keep you safe."
French Lyrics Explained
Here are the words to the French version of "O Canada":
Ô Canada! Terre de nos aĩeux, Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux! Car ton bras sait porter l'épée, Il sait porter la croix! Ton histoire est une épopée Des plus brillants exploits. Et ta valeur de foi trempée Protégera nos foyers et nos droits; Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.
This means: "Canada, the land of our parents and grandparents, you wear a crown of beautiful flowers! You are strong enough to carry a sword (meaning you can defend yourself), and you can carry a cross (referring to Christianity). Your entire history is full of great things you have done. You are brave and full of faith, and this will protect our homes and our rights."
Images for kids
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Adolphe-Basile Routhier around 1890
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The house where Lavallée lived in Quebec City in 1878
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'O Canada we stand on guard for thee' Stained glass, Royal Military College of Canada
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A page from Hymns of the Christian Life, 1962, showing some lyrics for "O Canada"
See also
In Spanish: O Canada para niños
