Did you know that America’s national anthem was first written as a poem?
Francis Scott Key wrote a poem entitled, “The Defense of Fort McHenry.” It was later set to the religious hymn, “To Anacreon in Heaven” and renamed, “The Star-Spangled Banner”!
If you would like to listen to and sing the national anthem, the words and music can be found here.
If you’re interested in the story of Francis Scott Key and the history behind the Star-Spangled Banner, you can watch the following videos and/or check out the link offered for the Smithsonian Museum below.
Francis Scott Key (6:07)
Watch a short documentary about the life of Francis Scott Key.
Francis Scott Key and the Defense of Fort McHenry (14:17)
Short documentary about Francis Scott Key, Fort McHenry, and the story behind America’s national anthem.
The Smithsonian: The Star-Spangled Banner
This interactive site will allow readers to earn stars as they correctly answer questions about the war of 1812 and the US flag.
Here’s a ROCK’n version of The Star-Spangled Banner by Madison Rising
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That was great. We should sent this out too all americans so they know the words.LOL KId of mine