This has both Dutch and English language versions and is unusual in being an acrostic in both languages. Among the national anthems, the first to be composed was the Dutch national anthem, the ' Wilhelmus', which was written between 15. There are multiple claimants to the position of oldest national anthem. Some states use their royal anthem as the national anthem, such as the state anthem of Jordan. Such anthems are usually performed at public appearances by the monarch or during other events of royal importance. A royal anthem is a patriotic song similar to a national anthem, but it specifically praises or prays for a monarch or royal dynasty. A song or hymn can become a national anthem under the state's constitution, by a law enacted by its legislature, or simply by tradition. Most nation states have an anthem, defined as 'a song, as of praise, devotion, or patriotism' most anthems are either marches or hymns in style. The anthem is one of the earliest to be adopted by a modern state, in 1795. For anthems of other territories, including constituent countries, see List of regional anthems.Ĭlaude Joseph Rouget de Lisle, the composer of the French national anthem ' La Marseillaise', sings it for the first time. This article is about the anthems of nation states.
