History And Origins

The Netherlands National Anthem: One of the World's Oldest Patriotic Songs

History and Origins

The Netherlands national anthem, "Het Wilhelmus," is one of the oldest patriotic songs in the world, with its origins dating back to at least 1572 during the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.

Lyrics and Performance

The anthem consists of 15 verses, with the first verse typically sung on official occasions. The lyrics are in Dutch and praise the life and leadership of William of Orange, the leader of the Dutch Revolt. The Wilhelmus can be played or sung at national and international events, with only the first verse commonly performed.