Internationale

Internationale, officially L'Internationale, is a socialist and labor movement anthem that has come to symbolize international solidarity among workers. The title translates to "The International," and the song is widely associated with left-wing politics and the broader labor movement.

Origin and composition: The lyrics were written by French revolutionary Eugène Pottier in 1871, in the wake of the Paris Commune. The music was composed by Belgian Pierre De Geyter and published in 1888. The work quickly spread beyond its origins and was translated into many languages, becoming a fixture at demonstrations, congresses, and international meetings.

Translations and versions: There are numerous translations and adaptations across languages. The English text is among the most familiar globally, but many regions maintain their own versions and lyrics to reflect local contexts.

Usage and impact: The Internationale became the de facto anthem of socialist, communist, and some social democratic movements. It is commonly sung at demonstrations, May Day celebrations, and other gatherings related to workers’ rights and internationalism. In some regimes, it was suppressed or replaced; in others, it has been revived in cultural or commemorative settings. It remains an enduring symbol of solidarity across diverse left-wing movements.

Musical and cultural significance: The song’s march-like melody and its call for workers of the world to unite have left a lasting imprint on political culture. It has influenced other political songs and continues to be performed in historical and contemporary contexts.

Legal status: The original lyrics and melody date from the 19th century, and the work is in the public domain in many jurisdictions. Translations and modern arrangements may carry separate copyright considerations.