Publication of Du gamla, du fria

Du gamla, du fria, meaning Thou ancient, thou free, is a Swedish song that serves as the unofficial national anthem of Sweden, although it has never been formally adopted by law. The lyrics were written by the poet Richard Dybeck in 1844 and are a hymn in praise of the Nordic countries and their history. The tune is based on a traditional Swedish folk melody that Dybeck adapted. The song became widely popular in the second half of the nineteenth century and was used on state occasions and at sports events. Usually only the first and last verses are sung, and its opening line is the title.

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