Her race, her language, laws and creed
Spain on America bestowed;
Full soon the younger country showed
That she was of a ripened breed.

With Liberty her one desire,
Full soon the battle volleys roared,
When great Bolivar drew the sword
And rose triumphant o'er the fire.

And wherefore, valiant from the start,
Hath Spain beheld her power decay? —
Because herself hath taught the way
Of conquest to the victor's heart.

She gave her speech, she gave her blood,
And all her old traditions gave;
In her we glory with the brave;
In her our needs are understood.