March of the Proletariat

"March of the Proletariat" was the National Anthem of the People's Republic of Neutralston from 1925 to 1928. Its lyrics were written by Leeroy Eastfield and its music was composed by Nelson Govert Kamphuijs. Whilst the anthem was well-liked by the Neutralstonese Public, the LFT Party didn't think the song properly represented Neutralston and replaced the anthem with "Neutralston Our Sovereign State" in 1928. 
This song is still used as a regional anthem for Benningtonshire, however the lyrics have been changed.
== History ==
==== Composition and Inception ====
The creation of "March of the Proletariat" was initiated by the Liberation Front of Neutralston (LFT) party as part of a broader effort to unify and inspire the working-class population of Neutralston. In the aftermath of the monarchy's overthrow in 1925, the new People's Republic sought to establish symbols that would resonate with the masses and embody the ideals of the revolution.
Leeroy Eastfield, a prominent poet and political activist, was approached to write the lyrics. Eastfield, known for his passionate and evocative writing, had been a vocal supporter of the LFT and its goals. His lyrics for the anthem were intended to reflect the struggles and aspirations of the proletariat, emphasizing themes of unity, strength, and resilience.
Nelson Govert Kamphuijs, a classically trained composer with a penchant for grand, stirring compositions, was tasked with creating the music. Kamphuijs, originally from the Netherlands, had moved to Neutralston in the early 1920s. His previous works included several orchestral pieces and patriotic songs that had garnered local acclaim. Kamphuijs' music for "March of the Proletariat" was designed to be uplifting and powerful, capturing the spirit of the new republic.
==== Premiere and Public Reception ====
"March of the Proletariat" was first performed publicly on Neutralstonese Radio in early 1926. The performance was met with widespread enthusiasm from the public. The anthem's powerful lyrics and stirring melody resonated deeply with the people, many of whom had participated in or supported the revolution.
The radio broadcast was a significant event, with many Neutralstonese gathering around their radios to listen. The anthem quickly became a popular symbol of the new government's commitment to the working class, and it was frequently played at public events, rallies, and official ceremonies.
==== Dissatisfaction within the LFT Party ====
Despite its popularity among the general public, "March of the Proletariat" faced criticism from some members of the LFT party. Key party leaders felt that the anthem, while stirring and popular, did not fully capture the broader vision and aspirations of the new republic. They argued that the song was too narrowly focused on the proletarian struggle and lacked the inclusive, unifying message that was needed to forge a cohesive national identity.
Additionally, some party members believed that the musical composition, while grand, did not adequately reflect the cultural diversity and historical richness of Neutralston. They sought an anthem that would be more encompassing and could serve as a stronger symbol of national unity.
==== Replacement with "Neutralston Our Sovereign State" ====
In 1928, after much internal debate, the LFT party decided to replace "March of the Proletariat" with a new national anthem. "Neutralston Our Sovereign State" was chosen for its broader, more inclusive message and its ability to symbolize the new nation's aspirations. The new anthem was designed to emphasize national pride, unity, and the collective future of all Neutralstonese people, beyond the immediate struggles of the working class.
==== Legacy and Continued Use ====
While "March of the Proletariat" was no longer the national anthem, its legacy persisted. The song remained a beloved piece of Neutralstonese cultural heritage, often performed at local events and commemorations. In Benningtonshire, the anthem was adopted as a regional anthem, with the lyrics modified to reflect local pride and history.
== 1924-1928 Lyrics ==
In Neutralston's land where the workers stand!
Marching strong, side by side, united hand in hand.
From the factories to the fields, we'll build a better fate Undivided.
We rise, breaking down the chains of state.
In the name of equality, we strive to be free.
Our communist ideals, a beacon for all to see.
With hammers in our hands and sickles by our side We march with pride, in the spirit of the proletariats' stride!
Marching on, marching on! 
For the cause we hold dear.
In Neutralston we stand united, with comrades near.
Oh, the March of the Proletariat! 
Resounding through the land.
A symphony of hope, a revolution at hand!
== 1978 Lyrics ==
Land of Benningtonshire.
Sunny days, cold nights,
Narrow valleys, tall mountains,
Leafy groves, flowing streams.
This is our land, Benningtonshire.
Steep cliffs, deep ravines,
Ancient culture, a treasure of wisdom,
Land of our brave people.
Shore of the rolling sea
Sea breeze, strong waves,
Trails of brave men,
The sound of sailing ships.
This is our land, Benningtonshire.