What is the title of Ireland’s national anthem, whose Irish opening means “The Soldiers’ Song”?

Ireland’s national anthem is titled “Amhrán na bhFiann,” meaning “The Soldiers’ Song.”

The song was written in English as “A Soldier’s Song” in 1909 by Peadar Kearney, with music composed by Kearney and Patrick Heeney. Liam Ó Rinn translated it into Irish, producing the version whose title is now used officially.

The song became associated with Irish republican forces during the struggle for independence. After the formation of the Irish Free State, it was adopted as the national anthem in 1926. The chorus, rather than the entire song, is commonly sung at public events.

Ireland’s anthem is often confused with “Ireland’s Call,” a separate song written for Irish rugby and later used by several all-island sporting teams. “Amhrán na bhFiann” is the state anthem, while “Ireland’s Call” is a sporting anthem with a different history and purpose.