![]() ![]() The British Empire was heavily involved in the slave trade at the time the song was written and some say the lyrics suggest Britons have superiority over those from other lands. These words suggest that while Britons’ won’t be enslaved, those from other nations can be, according to critics. Other lyrics that have been a source of controversy are “Britons never, never, never will be slaves.” Many believe songs such as this, celebrating the empire and its perceived links to colonialism and slavery are no longer appropriate. The song became more patriotic in the 1800s when the British Empire expanded across more of the world.Īccording to Historic UK, the lyrics changed in Victorian times from ‘Britannia, rule the waves’ to ‘Britannia rules the waves’, as the Royal Navy gained more dominance of the waters. However, according to Classic FM, when the piece was first written it was not celebrating naval success but instead “a cry for help” as the Royal Navy at that time did not have much control over the seas, while other countries were establishing empires. ![]() The song has military connections, particularly with the Royal Navy, made evident by the words “Britannia, rule the waves”. ![]()
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