🐦 Chapter 8: Canadian Symbols
8.4.2 National Anthem
2 paragraphs · 4 questions
The national anthem of Canada is O Canada. It was first sung in Quebec City in 1880. It became the official national anthem much later, by proclamation in 1980, so a full century passed between the first performance and official status. The anthem is sung at ceremonies, at citizenship ceremonies, and before sporting events. One of its best-known phrases describes the country as "the True North strong and free."
Key Facts
- O Canada was first sung in Quebec City in 1880
- It was proclaimed the national anthem in 1980
- A century separated the first singing from official status
The anthem exists in two languages, English and French, and the words are not the same in each. French-speaking and English-speaking Canadians sing different words to the same music. The French version, Ô Canada, is not a translation of the English one; it has its own text. Both are official. If you attend a public ceremony you may hear one version, the other, or a mixture of the two in the same performance.
Key Facts
- O Canada has English and French versions
- The two versions have different words, not a translation
- Both versions share the same music
Test yourself on this topic
4 practice questions from “National Anthem”, each with the answer explained.
- In which city was O Canada first sung?
- In what year was O Canada first sung?
- How do English and French Canadians sing the national anthem?
- O Canada became the country's official anthem in which year?
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