The original anthem has three stanzas. After World War II, in an effort to distance itself from its dark past and embrace a new era of democracy and peace, West Germany in 1952 adopted only the third stanza as its national anthem. The second stanza was also omitted as it was deemed inappropriate in the context of a more inclusive and equal society, with some elements being seen as disrespectful to women.

In 1990, when Germany was reunified, the third stanza of "Das Lied der Deutschen" became the national anthem of the united Germany. Although it is not illegal to sing the first or second stanzas, the general public highly disapproves of it. Singing these stanzas often implies strong nationalistic tendencies, and they are almost exclusively used by right - wing groups. Thus, in most official and public occasions, Germans only sing the third stanza, ensuring that their national anthem represents unity, freedom, and a break from the country's tragic past.