When the National Convention declared war on Austria in 1792, a patriotic song was written by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle. It became very popular among volunteer soldiers from the French city of Marseille, and so became known as "La Marseillaise." The melody became as emblematic of the Revolution as the tricolor flag.
It was evocative of French revolutionary spirit, with lyrics that make the American national anthem look like a nursery rhyme.
Allons enfants de la Patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrivé! Contre nous de la tyrannie L'étendard sanglant est levé, Entendez-vous dans les campagnes Mugir ces féroces soldats? Ils viennent jusque dans vos bras Égorger vos fils, vos compagnes! Aux armes, citoyens, Formez vos bataillons, Marchons, marchons! Qu'un sang impur Abreuve nos sillons! |
Arise, children of the Fatherland, The day of glory has arrived! Against us, tyranny's Bloody standard is raised, Do you hear, in the countryside, The roar of those ferocious soldiers? They're coming right into your arms To cut the throats of your sons, your women! To arms, citizens, Form your battalions, Let's march, let's march! Let an impure blood Water our furrows! |