Dictionary of Dutchness

Wilhelmus

The Dutch national anthem, the Wilhelmus, is said to be the oldest national anthem in the world. Written from the perspective of William of Orange, it dates from the 16th century but only officially became the Dutch anthem in 1932. The opening stanza appears to refer to William as being of German blood, but this is disputed by some experts. William of Orange also rather strangely sings of his allegiance to the Spanish king.

All typical untranslatable Dutch words and expressions translated in the Dictionairy of Dutchness
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