The National Anthem Connection
Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or
Flash plugin.
Flags of Great Britain & Austrian Empire
When some people hear this melody, they think of an Anglican hymn. Others recall a string quartet by Joseph Haydn. And others hear the German national anthem.
In fact, the tune has served all three purposes, but—surprisingly--its origins lie in the British national anthem, “God Save the King.”
In this hour, the curious and intertwined stories behind those two familiar tunes, and the ways they have been used—and misused—for the past two centuries
