O Canada: The History and Words of the National Anthem

Learn the history, lyrics, and significance of O Canada — the Canadian national anthem tested on the citizenship exam.

"O Canada" is the national anthem of Canada, and its history is a favourite topic on the citizenship test. From its composition in 1880 to becoming official in 1980, here is everything you need to know.

The History

1880: Composition

"O Canada" was composed by Calixa Lavallée, with French lyrics by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. It was first performed on June 24, 1880 (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day) in Quebec City.

1908: English Lyrics

The English lyrics were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. The English version is not a translation of the French — both are original compositions.

1980: Official Anthem

"O Canada" was officially adopted as Canada's national anthem on July 1, 1980 — exactly 100 years after it was first performed. Before 1980, "God Save the Queen" (now "God Save the King") was the only official anthem.

2018: Gender-Neutral Lyrics

The lyrics were amended to be gender-neutral. The line "in all thy sons command" was changed to "in all of us command."

The English Lyrics

O Canada!

Our home and native land!

True patriot love in all of us command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,

The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

The Royal Anthem

Canada actually has two anthems:

National anthem: "O Canada"

Royal anthem: "God Save the King"

The royal anthem is played when the Sovereign or a member of the Royal Family is present. Both are official.

When Is O Canada Played?

At the beginning of public events (hockey games, ceremonies, etc.)

At citizenship ceremonies

On Canada Day (July 1)

At school assemblies (in some provinces)

At military events

At the opening of Parliament

O Canada and the Citizenship Test

For the test, you should know:

Who composed the music: Calixa Lavallée

When it was first performed: June 24, 1880

When it became official: July 1, 1980

That the French lyrics came first

That "God Save the King" is the royal anthem

The 2018 amendment to gender-neutral lyrics

The Anthem at Citizenship Ceremonies

At the end of every citizenship ceremony, new citizens sing "O Canada" together. For many, it is an emotional moment — the first time singing the anthem as a citizen.

Some tips for the ceremony:

Learn the words beforehand (at least the first verse)

You can sing in English, French, or both

Lyric sheets are usually provided

It is OK if you are not a confident singer — the group singing makes it comfortable

Cultural Significance

O Canada is more than just an anthem — it is a symbol of unity. When Canadians sing it at hockey games, community events, or ceremonies, it connects them to their shared identity and values.

The anthem mentions key Canadian ideals:

"True patriot love": devotion to country

"True North strong and free": Canada's identity as a northern nation

"We stand on guard for thee": commitment to defending Canada and its values

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to memorise all the words?

The test asks about the history of the anthem, not the lyrics. However, learning the first verse is recommended for the ceremony.

Is the French version different from the English?

Yes. They are both original compositions, not translations of each other.

Learn more about Canadian symbols in our [Study Hub](/dashboard/study).