Mexican National Anthem
The national anthem of Mexico is known as Himno Nacional Mexicano in Spanish. It is also called “Mexicanos, al grito de guerra,” which translates to mean “Mexicans, at the cry of war.” The lyrics for the anthem were originally written in 1853 by Francisco Gonzalez Bocanegra as a result of a federal contest. These lyrics were based on historic battle victories in Mexico, as well as calls for continued defense of the country and national unity. Bocanegra approached Jaime Nuno to compose the music to accompany the lyrics, and the music was completed in 1854. It was during that same year that the song was adopted as the de facto national anthem and went into use.
The original song featured ten stanzas. However, like most other nations, Mexico has shortened this version to create the official national anthem. In 1943, it was designated that the chorus, 1st, 5th, 6th and 10th stanzas would make up the official national anthem. Some sporting events and TV and radio programs use an abridged version of the official anthem. The people of Mexico take the national anthem very seriously as it encourages national unity. Some describe the anthem as a symbol of “Mexican identity.” The government also takes the anthem quite seriously and will impose penalties such as fines when it is performed incorrectly.