The Story behind 'Star Spangled Banner' by Francis Scott Key

The 'Star Spangled Banner' was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry. As the night of the battle ended and he saw the American flag still flying over the fort in the morning, he was inspired to write the poem that would become the national anthem. It was a symbol of American resilience and defiance against the British forces.

Francis Scott Key was on a ship near Fort McHenry when the battle took place. He was actually there to negotiate the release of a prisoner. But during the night, as he watched the battle unfold, he was filled with anxiety about the fate of the fort and the flag. When dawn broke and the flag was still there, his patriotic feelings surged, and he quickly penned down the words that we now know as the 'Star Spangled Banner'. This anthem has since become an important part of American identity, representing the nation's strength and tenacity.