Argentina national anthem lyrics: English translation, meaning and history
Argentina’s emotional rendition of the national anthem is one of the defining moments of every World Cup. Here’s where it came from and what the lyrics mean.
Before the opening whistle of any World Cup match, one of soccer’s most emotional traditions unfolds as players line up on the field while their national anthems echo throughout the stadium.
It’s a moment that creates an unmatched bond between a team and its supporters. For a few unforgettable minutes, soccer becomes something bigger than sport, with the national team jersey representing an entire country’s hopes and identity.
Argentina’s unmatched national pride
If there’s one country famous around the world for its fierce sense of national identity, it’s Argentina. The players who wear the famous sky blue and white jersey embody that passion every time they take the field, showing they’re willing to give everything for their country.
For the players and their supporters alike, singing the national anthem at full voice isn’t simply a pregame tradition. It’s an emotional connection between the fans in the stands and the team representing Argentina and its three World Cup titles on the field.
At stadiums across the United States, Mexico and Canada, that tradition has continued throughout the tournament. As Argentina looks to defend its World Cup crown, the anthem sets the tone before every game, sending chills through thousands of fans and once again proving that Argentine passion can be heard anywhere in the world.
The history of Argentina’s national anthem
Argentina’s national anthem was first written in 1812 under the original title “Marcha Patriótica” (“Patriotic March”). It wasn’t officially renamed the “Argentine National Anthem” until 1847.
The anthem did not remain unchanged after its creation. Both the music and lyrics underwent several revisions over the decades.
The two most significant changes came in 1860, when composer Juan P. Esnaola introduced new musical arrangements, and again in 1900, when a government decree shortened the lyrics to create the official version that is still performed today.
Argentina national anthem lyrics (official 1900 version)
Hear, mortals, the sacred cry: Freedom! Freedom! Freedom!
Hear the sound of broken chains. See noble equality enthroned.
The United Provinces of the South have opened their most worthy throne.
And the free people of the world reply:
“Hail to the great Argentine nation!” (repeat)
And the free people of the world reply:
“Hail to the great Argentine nation!”
And the free people of the world reply:
“Hail to the great Argentine nation!”
Chorus
May the laurels we achieved remain eternal. (repeat)
May we live crowned in glory, Or swear to die with glory. (repeat three times)
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