BALTIMORE -- It has been 209 years to the day since Francis Scott Key wrote the 'The Star-Spangled Banner' in Baltimore. On September 14, 1814, the Battle of Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' This iconic poem, later set to music, would go on to become America's national anthem.
Francis Scott Key, a Washington lawyer, may seem an unlikely candidate to write the national anthem. He had been against America's entry into the War of 1812 from the outset. However, witnessing the resilience of American troops defending Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore changed his perspective.
During the battle, Key was aboard a British ship negotiating the release of an American prisoner. As he watched the British bombardment of Fort McHenry throughout the night, he anxiously awaited the outcome. When the morning broke, he was relieved to see the American flag still flying proudly over the fort. This image inspired him to write the poem that would later become the national anthem.
The poem, originally titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry," was published in several newspapers and gained popularity. The poem's lyrics were set to the tune of a popular British song, "To Anacreon in Heaven," and it quickly became a patriotic favorite among Americans.
However, controversy surrounds the national anthem. Some believe that the song, written by slaveholder Francis Scott Key, is racist. The lyrics, which include a reference to "the hireling and slave," were controversial from the start. This aspect of the anthem has led to debates and discussions about its meaning and relevance in modern times.
Despite these debates, 'The Star-Spangled Banner' holds a significant place in American history. The flag that inspired Francis Scott Key's poem, known as the Star-Spangled Banner Flag, is housed in a climate-controlled, light-protected chamber at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. This flag serves as a tangible reminder of the battle and the creation of the national anthem.
Francis Scott Key is most famous for writing the 'Star-Spangled Banner.' However, after he penned the now-famous lyrics, he hardly mentioned or promoted the anthem. He continued his legal career and played an active role in society, but the anthem's popularity grew independently of his involvement.
In 1931, almost a century after its creation, 'The Star-Spangled Banner' was officially recognized as the national anthem of the United States. Since then, it has been performed at countless events, including sports games and patriotic celebrations, symbolizing the pride and spirit of the American people.
In conclusion, Francis Scott Key's poem, written during the Battle of Fort McHenry in 1814, became the national anthem of the United States. Despite controversies surrounding the lyrics, 'The Star-Spangled Banner' remains a powerful symbol of American history and patriotism. The story of Francis Scott Key and the creation of the anthem sheds light on the resilience and spirit of the American people during challenging times.
