French Canadian folk music originated in the 17th century as immigrants from France settled in Canada. It was passed down orally and helped French Canadians express their shared identity and patriotism. The genre features varied themes and no consistent musical form. It gained prominence when Ernest Gagnon published the first collection of Quebec folk songs in 1865, aiding the music's dissemination. The national anthem "O Canada" embodied French Canadian folk music's patriotic themes when it was composed and performed in 1880.