On This Day: September 13th - The Star-Spangled Banner is Written

On September 13th, 1814 a man named Francis Scott Key witnessed Fort McHenry in Maryland go under attack by the British Army during the War of 1812 called the Battle of Baltimore. He noticed a tattered and torn U.S. flag still flying after the long day of battle and the smoke had cleared. Inspired by the sight of the flag is still flying, he wrote a poem called "Defence of Fort McHenry". Exemplifying American patriotism, his poem was later set to music and became a song, This song which was renamed "The Star-Spangled Banner" official became the United States' national anthem in 1931. U.S. president Woodrow Wilson by Executive Order named the the song the U.S. national anthem in 1916.

This event is historically relevant to the United States because it brought a sense of unity and pride to the American people. It became a tradition for "The Star-Spangled Banner" to be sang at the beginning of major events such as sporting games. Embedded in this tradition is the practice of removing one's hat and facing the United states flag while the anthem is played or sang. By facing the flag your are not only showing respect for the country, you are also facing your heart toward the country you love. Francis Scott Key was eventually appointed to the United States attorney for the District of Columbia and defended Sam Houston for attacking another Congressman. Francis Scott Key passed away on January 11th, 1843. Why do you think that "The Star-Spangled Banner is historically important to the United States?

"Key pens Star-Spangled Banner." 2008. The History Channel website. 15 Sep 2008, 04:02 http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history.do?action=Article&id=52851.