Jamaica
Jamaica, Land We Love
1962
1962
Hugh Sherlock
Robert Lightbourne
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Context
Written by Hugh Sherlock with music by Robert Lightbourne, the anthem was adopted upon Jamaica's independence from the United Kingdom on August 6, 1962. The anthem takes the form of a prayer, asking God to bless and protect the nation. It won a national competition that received over 700 entries.
Lyrics
Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours.
To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • The anthem was selected from over 700 entries in a national competition held before independence
- • Hugh Sherlock was a clergyman, which explains the anthem's prayer-like structure and religious tone
- • Jamaica was the first Caribbean country to gain independence within the Commonwealth, and its anthem influenced the style of later Caribbean national anthems