The Nation Where Brave Hearts—and Martyrs—Dwell

The lyric “A nation where martyrs dwell” from the song “Kabar Ma Kyay Bu” rings true when we look back at the history of our country. In every era, there has always been a force that boldly rises against injustice and oppression—young people, tender in age yet brave of heart. Let’s call them “Brave Hearts.”

Bogyoke Aung San, Salai Tin Maung Oo, Ma Win Maw Oo, Ko Phone Maw, Kyel Sin, Ma Thwe Thwe Khaing. These names are well-known. They gave their lives fearlessly for freedom, truth, and country, considering those things more precious than their own lives. But beyond them lie countless other young people and students who died unknown—on the streets during peaceful protests, or on the front lines of armed resistance.

It’s true to say that it’s the young who dare to fight, and also the young who dare to die. This seems to be a universal truth. Yet even compared to neighboring countries, Myanmar’s youth have engaged in more resistance movements and made greater sacrifices. This is due to our long history of political oppression over the past century.