"" () is the national anthem of Madagascar. The lyrics were written by Pasteur Rahajason, and the music by Norbert Raharisoa. It is similar to a march and was strongly influenced by European music and the French colonial education system. It is often played by Malagasy musicians on the accordion. The anthem was officially adopted on 27 April 1959 by the parliament of Madagascar prior to the official granting of independence on 26 June 1960. Philibert Tsiranana was Prime Minister of Madagascar during the creation of the anthem, and Michel Debré was the French Prime Minister during this time. The main focus of the anthem is love of the land, as well as thankfulness to God and an appeal to unity and loyalty under the nation. History "Pastor" Rahajason is credited with writing the national anthem of Madagascar. He was a priest born in 1897 and died in 1971. He was influenced by the French colonial education system, the aim of which was to assimilate the colonised people and was part of the broader civilising mission. This system was designed to orient local Malagasy populations towards the French colonial project, promoting strong ties to the French language, as well as French civilisation, values and cultural preferences. The schools were often associated with various missionary organisations, imparting a strong religious education overtone, also accounting for Rahajason's exposure to Christianity and his subsequent decision to become a pastor. Norbert Raharisoa is credited with composing the national anthem of Madagascar. Raharisoa was also a music teacher and professor. He was born in 1914 and died in 1963, shortly after the adoption of his composition. He was honoured for his contributions to Malagasy culture by being featured on the 40 franc postage stamp in 1967. Like his colleague Rahajason, Norbert Raharisoa was raised under the French colonial education system, which explains the colonial influence on the anthem. The national anthem was officially adopted on 27 April 1959, approximately one year before Madagascar achieved independence from France, on 26 June 1960. The anthem was originally written in French and Malagasy. Music The anthem is written as a European-style march, consistent with many national anthems around the world. The march is traditionally a military style, with a strong and even beat, originally meant to help troops "march" in step while travelling. The anthem betrays its colonial influence through the general absence of local musical styles and