All nations have patriotic songs that express the people's love for their country.
Some are or were derived from old folk songs. Many were written in time of war or revolution. Most nations have selected one of their patriotic songs as a national anthem, to be played and sung on ceremonial occasions. A national anthem usually expresses religious feeling as well as a feeling of pride in one's country. It is customary to stand, as a mark of respect, while a national anthem is being played or sung.