Mexico
Himno Nacional Mexicano
Mexican National Anthem
1853
1943
Francisco Gonzalez Bocanegra
Jaime Nuno
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Context
The lyrics were written by Francisco Gonzalez Bocanegra in 1853 after his fiancee locked him in a room and refused to let him out until he finished the poem. The music was composed by Spanish-born Jaime Nuno. The anthem was first performed on September 15, 1854, and its fiery, martial tone reflects the turbulent period of foreign invasions and internal conflicts Mexico faced in the 19th century.
Lyrics
Mexicanos, al grito de guerra
El acero aprestad y el bridon;
y retiemble en sus centros la tierra
Al sonoro rugir del canon.
Cina, ioh patria!, tus sienes de oliva
De la paz el arcangel divino,
Que en el cielo tu eterno destino
Por el dedo de Dios se escribio.
Mas si osare un extrano enemigo
Profanar con su planta tu suelo,
Piensa, ioh patria querida!, que el cielo
Un soldado en cada hijo te dio.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • The poet Francisco Gonzalez Bocanegra was reportedly locked in a room by his fiancee until he completed the lyrics for a national anthem competition
- • The original anthem had ten verses, but only the chorus and select verses are performed today because some stanzas referenced specific political figures
- • Mexican law strictly regulates the anthem's use: it can only be played at official events, and unauthorized modifications can result in fines or imprisonment