La Bayamesa (The Bayamo Song) is the national anthem of Cuba. It was first performed during the Battle of Bayamo in 1868. Pedro Figueredo, who took part in the battle, wrote and composed the song. Figueredo was captured and executed by the Spaniards two years later. Officially adopted in 1902, the anthem was retained after the communist revolution of 1959.

Spanish Lyrics

Al combate, corred, bayameses,
Que la Patria os contempla orgullosa;
No temáis una muerte gloriosa,
Que morir por la Patria es vivir.

En cadenas vivir, es vivir
En afrenta y oprobio sumido;
Del clarín escuchad el sonido;
¡A las armas, valientes, corred!

English Translation

Hasten to battle, men of Bayamo,
For the homeland looks proudly to you.
You do not fear a glorious death,
Because to die for the country is to live.

To live in chains
Is to live in dishonour and ignominy.
Hear the clarion call,
Hasten, braves ones, to battle!

External Link

• MIDI File