The history of the Argentine national anthem

The Argentine national anthem, Himno Nacional Argentino was composed by Vicente López y Planes and written by the Argentine national hero, José de San Martín. The song was officially adopted as the national anthem on May 11, 1813.

Interestingly, Vicente López y Planes wasn't just a composer, he was also a politician and was interim President of Argentina from July 7 to August 18, 1827!

But the hymn has more to its background as well.

The lyrics of the anthem reflect the struggles and triumphs of the Argentine people, as well as their love for their country. The opening lines, "Oíd, mortales, el grito sagrado / ¡Libertad! ¡Libertad! ¡Libertad!" (Hear, mortals, the sacred cry / Freedom! Freedom! Freedom!), speak to the country's fight for independence from Spanish rule.

The anthem also references the natural beauty of Argentina, with lines like "Sudamos en la faz del sol" (We sweat in the face of the sun) and "Pujante ciprés que en el zafiro" (Rising cypress in the sapphire [sky]).

The melody of the national anthem was originally composed by López y Planes as a zamba, a traditional Argentine folk dance. It was later rearranged in a more formal style by composer Blas Parera, who added a full orchestra and chorus to the piece.

Since its adoption as the national anthem, "Himno Nacional Argentino" has been a source of national pride for the Argentine people. It is played at official ceremonies and sporting events, and is a reminder of the country's rich history and cultural heritage.