Johann Voldemar Jannsen

About

Estonian journalist and poet best known for writing the words to his country's national anthem. A leader in the Estonian National Awakening, he directed a choral society that established a national music festival in the city of Tartu.

Before Fame

He was born and raised in Vandra in Livonia County, Estonia.

Trivia

His patriotic song, "Mu isamaa, mu onn ja room," was set to music in 1848 and became the Estonian national anthem in 1920.

Family Life

His daughter, Lydia Koidula, was also a poet.

Associated With

He was born in the same country as fellow poet Ain Kaalep.