The German National Anthem: A History and English Translation
Introduction
"Das Lied der Deutschen," commonly known as the "Deutschlandlied," is the national anthem of Germany. It was written by August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben in 1841 and set to the tune of Joseph Haydn's "Gott erhalte Franz den Kaiser." Only the third stanza of the anthem is officially recognized as the national anthem.Hoffmann von Fallersleben's Intention
Hoffmann von Fallersleben intended "Das Lied der Deutschen" to serve as a symbol of German unity and patriotism. He chose Haydn's tune because it was well-known and beloved by Germans. The lyrics of the third stanza express a desire for a unified and free Germany.The English translation of the third stanza, which is the official national anthem, is as follows:
Unity and justice and freedom for the German fatherland! Let us strive for them, brotherly, with hearts and hands! Unity and justice and freedom are the fortune of the German fatherland! May God protect our fatherland!
The anthem has been subject to some controversy over the years, particularly the first stanza, which contains references to the German Empire. However, the third stanza, which is the official national anthem, is generally accepted as a symbol of German unity and pride.
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