Venezuela National Anthem — Gloria al Bravo Pueblo

"Gloria al Bravo Pueblo" is a hymn of revolution. Its chorus glorifies the "brave people who threw off the yoke" of colonial rule — but "respecting the law, virtue and honour", framing independence as a lawful, principled act rather than mere revolt.

The verse dramatises the awakening of liberty: a cry of "Down with chains!", the poor man in his hut demanding freedom, and the "vile selfishness" of tyranny trembling before the holy name of liberty. It captures the fervour of Venezuela's independence struggle.

The song dates to 1810, the year Venezuela began its move toward independence; the lyrics are traditionally attributed to the physician and writer Vicente Salias and the music to the composer Juan José Landaeta — both of whom died in the independence wars. Long popular as a patriotic song, it was officially declared the national anthem by President Antonio Guzmán Blanco in 1881.

Its revolutionary fervour and links to the fight for independence earned "Gloria al Bravo Pueblo" the nickname "the Venezuelan Marseillaise". Sung at civic ceremonies and, passionately, at sporting events, it remains a powerful emblem of Venezuelan national feeling.

"Gloria al Bravo Pueblo" ("Glory to the Brave People") is the national anthem of Venezuela, one of the most rousing of the world's national anthems. The lyrics are attributed to Vicente Salias and the music to Juan José Landaeta.

Written in 1810 and adopted in 1881, it is in the public domain. It is nicknamed "the Venezuelan Marseillaise".