Romanian National Anthem: “Deșteaptă-te, române!” (Awaken, Romanian!)
Awaken,Romanian, from your sleep of death Into which you have been sunk by the barbaric tyrants Now,or never, make a new fate for yourself, To which even your cruel enemies will bow.
Now or never let us give proof to the world That in these veins still flows a Roman blood, That in our chests we hold with pride a name Triumphant in battles,the name of Trajan!
Look, great shadows, Michael, Stephen, Corvinus, The Romanian nation,your great descendants, With arms in their hands,with your fire in their veins, “Life in freedom or death!”shout all.
Priests, lead with your crucifixes! Because our army is Christian, The motto is Liberty and its goal is too holy, Better to die in battle,in full glory, Than to once again be slaves on our ancestral land!
Historical Context and Notes:
· Official Name: “Deșteaptă-te, române!” (“Awaken, Romanian!”)
· Adopted: 1990 (replaced “Trei culori” which was used from 1977-1990)
· Lyrics By: Andrei Mureșanu (1848)
· Music By: Anton Pann
· Melody: Based on a composition by Gheorghe Ucenescu
Historical Background: The Romanian national anthem was written during the 1848 revolution period.The poem by Andrei Mureșanu was first published under the title “Un răsunet” (An Echo). The anthem symbolizes Romania’s struggle for independence and national awakening.
The lyrics reference Trajan, the Roman Emperor, alluding to the Romanian people’s Roman origins. Michael, Stephen, and Corvinus represent important historical leaders in Romanian history.
Key Themes:
· National awakening and resurrection
· Resistance against oppression
· Historical continuity from Roman times
· Christian heritage
· Sacrifice for freedom
Interesting Facts:
· The anthem was banned during various periods of Romania’s history
· It was frequently sung by protesters during the 1989 Romanian Revolution
· The melody is based on a religious hymn “Din sânul maicii mele”
· It is one of the longest national anthems in use today
Symbolism: The anthem emphasizes Romania’s Latin origins and Christian heritage while calling for national unity and resistance against oppression.The references to historical figures create a connection between Romania’s past and present, reinforcing national identity.
