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'''O Canada''' is the national anthem of [[Canada]]. It is sung at official ceremonies, public events, schools, and sporting competitions, representing pride, unity, and patriotism. Originally composed in French in 1880, it became the official anthem in both English and French in 1980.

== History ==

* '''1880''': Composed for Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, commissioned by Lieutenant Governor of Quebec, Théodore Robitaille.
* '''Original French lyrics''': Written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier; music composed by Calixa Lavallée.
* '''English version''': The most commonly sung English lyrics were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908.
* '''1980''': Officially adopted as Canada's national anthem through the National Anthem Act on July 1, 1980 — the 100th anniversary of its first performance.

== Lyrics ==

=== English (Official Version) ===
<poem>
O Canada!  
Our home and native land!  
True patriot love in all of us command.  
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,  
The True North strong and free!  
From far and wide,  
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.  
God keep our land glorious and free!  
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.  
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
</poem>

=== French (Original) ===
<poem>
Ô Canada!  
Terre de nos aïeux,  
Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux!  
Car ton bras sait porter l'épée,  
Il sait porter la croix!  
Ton histoire est une épopée  
Des plus brillants exploits.  
Et ta valeur, de foi trempée,  
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.  
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.
</poem>

== Meaning and Symbolism ==

* The anthem emphasizes Canadian identity through references to:
  * The "True North" — a phrase signifying strength, integrity, and sovereignty.
  * "Glorious and free" — reinforcing freedom and national pride.
* The anthem reflects both English and French Canadian heritage.
* It is sung at school assemblies, national celebrations like [[Canada Day]], military events, and international competitions.

== Gender-Neutral Update ==

* In 2018, the English lyrics were updated to be more inclusive:
  * Changed from "in all thy sons command" to **"in all of us command"**
* The change was part of efforts to modernize the anthem and reflect Canadian values of equality.

== When and Where It's Performed ==

* Opening of Parliament and government functions
* National holidays and remembrance services
* NHL games and Olympic events
* School morning assemblies in many provinces

== Notable Facts ==

* Although English and French versions differ slightly in meaning, both are official.
* The melody is often performed instrumentally, especially at sporting events and memorials.
* It was previously one of several unofficial anthems, alongside "The Maple Leaf Forever" and "God Save the Queen".

== Related Pages ==
* [[Canadian Flag]]
* [[Canada Day]]
* [[National Symbols of Canada]]
* [[Canadian History]]
* [[Indigenous Peoples of Canada]]

== External Links ==
* [https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/anthems-canada.html Government of Canada – O Canada]

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''Whether sung in arenas, schools, or ceremonies, "O Canada" serves as a powerful expression of national unity, pride, and cultural heritage.''

[[Category:National Symbols of Canada]]
[[Category:Canadian Culture]]
[[Category:Canadian History]]
[[Category:Canadian Music]]