Some songs were never written as national anthems, but major events transformed them into symbols of identity, resistance, or national pride.
1. “La Marseillaise” — France
Originally written in 1792 as a revolutionary war song, “La Marseillaise” became associated with the French Revolution.
Its message of resistance and national unity eventually made it France’s official national anthem.
2. “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” — South Africa
The song began as a hymn in the early 20th century before becoming a powerful symbol of the anti-apartheid movement.
After apartheid ended, it became part of South Africa’s national anthem, combined with the former anthem of the country.
3. “Arirang” — Korea
“Arirang” is an old Korean folk song with countless regional versions.
During periods of Japanese occupation and later division, it became a powerful symbol of Korean identity. Today, both North and South Korea treat it as an unofficial cultural anthem.
4. “Three Lions” — England
Written for England’s Euro 1996 campaign, “Three Lions” was supposed to be a football song.
Instead, its chorus became permanently associated with English football and is repeatedly revived whenever England enters a major tournament.
5. “Bella Ciao” — Italy
“Bella Ciao” became associated with Italian resistance fighters during World War II.
Decades later, it was revived by protesters and movements around the world, transforming a relatively obscure Italian folk song into an international symbol of resistance.
6. “Wavin’ Flag” — Africa and the World
K’naan’s 2009 song was originally inspired by Somalia and themes of freedom and displacement.
Its 2010 World Cup connection transformed it into a global celebration song, particularly across Africa, and it became closely associated with the tournament even though it was not FIFA’s official anthem.