| |
| | Polish Music Reference Center:May 1997 Newsletter |
 | | However, when Poland reached the lowest point in its history, during the partitions at the end of the eighteenth century, a resurgence of interest in defining and protecting national identity led to the creation of a number of songs, which, in time, competed for the title of the "national anthem." |
 | | In 1774, the patriotic poet-bishop, Ignacy Krasicki wrote a hymn to "Holy love of the beloved homeland" which is, till this day sung at the Military Academy [Szkola Rycerska]; and appropriately so, since it calls for ultimate sacrifices for the sake of the country, including the offerings of poverty and death. |
 | | Krasicki's subsequent hymn, written for the first anniversary of the proclamation of the 3rd May Constitution (in 1792) is more joyous in nature and is set to a popular, memorable melody. |
| www.usc.edu /dept/polish_music/news/may97.html (2364 words) |
|