CA Country Anthems

Latvia National Anthem History

Dievs, svētī Latviju

"Dievs, svētī Latviju!" was composed by Kārlis Baumanis during Russian rule as an act of defiance, becoming Latvia's anthem upon its independence. It was later abolished during Soviet occupation and restored after the country regained sovereignty.

Latvia Dievs, svētī Latviju

Latvia

Language
Latvian
Anthem
Dievs, svētī Latviju
Duration
1:45
Status
"Dievs, svētī Latviju!" continues to serve as the national anthem of the Republic of Latvia today.

History timeline

  1. 1873

    The song, composed by Kārlis Baumanis, is first publicly performed at a singing festival.

  2. 1918

    It is first performed as the national anthem when Latvia declares its independence.

  3. 1920

    "Dievs, svētī Latviju!" is officially adopted as the national anthem of Latvia.

  4. 1940

    The anthem is abolished and forbidden following Latvia's incorporation into the Soviet Union.

  5. 1990

    With the restoration of independence, the song is reinstated as Latvia's national anthem.

This anthem holds the distinction of being the first song ever written that included the word 'Latvia' in its lyrics, an act of defiance against Russian prohibitions.