1779-1843

Describes the events of the War of 1812 and the circumstances that inspired each of the lines of the song by Francis Scott Key.

A young Baltimore boy and his brother witness the British bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814 that culminates in the writing of the national anthem by Francis Scott Key.

Describes the life of the lawyer and poet, Francis Scott Key, best known for writing the poem "The Star-Spangled Banner" in 1814.

A brief summary of the history of America's National Anthem, when and by whom it was written, and what it represents.

Provides a history and words to all four verses of the song called "The Star-Spangled Banner," which became the national anthem of the United States in 1931. Includes directions for making a star-spangled banner.

A simple description of how, during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key came to write the poem that became the national anthem.

An account of the writing of the "Star-Spangled Banner," telling why lawyer and poet Francis Scott Key was behind enemy lines at the time he wrote the lyrics to what became the national anthem.

Traces the history of the Star Spangled Banner, from a lawyer's poem written during the War of 1812, through its official recognition as the national anthem in 1931, to its ongoing inspiration today.

Provides an account of the causes and conduct of the War of 1812, focusing on the battle between British ships and troops at Baltimore's Fort Henry which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem which became "The Star-Spangled Banner.".

Shares the story behind the writing of "The Star-Spangled Banner," in 1814, telling how Francis Scott Key, having witnessed a critical battle between British and U.S. troops from a truce ship, was inspired to write the song after seeing the garrison flag still flying over Fort Henry in Baltimore, Maryland; discusses the Smithsonian Institute's efforts to preserve the actual flag; and considers how the song and the flag have come to symbolize American patriotism and pride.