What is the true story behind The Star-Spangled Banner?

On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key pens a poem which is later set to music and in 1931 becomes America’s national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The poem, originally titled “The Defence of Fort M’Henry,” was written after Key witnessed the Maryland fort being bombarded by the British during the War of 1812.

What was The Star-Spangled Banner originally called?

The Defense of Fort McHenry
Before it was named “The Star-Spangled Banner,” it was called “The Defense of Fort McHenry.” Key eventually changed the name to better represent the flag and the United States. President Herbert Hoover signed the bill that made the song the national anthem in 1931.

Who sang the original Star-Spangled Banner?

Key was inspired by the large U.S. flag, with 15 stars and 15 stripes, known as the Star-Spangled Banner, flying triumphantly above the fort during the U.S. victory….The Star-Spangled Banner.

National anthem of the United States
Lyrics Francis Scott Key, 1814
Music John Stafford Smith, c. 1773
Adopted March 3, 1931
Audio sample

How did Francis Scott Key’s poem became the national anthem?

When he saw the fort’s flag flying after the battle, a signal that U.S. troops had withstood the enemy, he was inspired to write a poem originally called “Defence of Fort McHenry.” The poem, set to music and later renamed, became the country’s national anthem in 1931.

Is kneeling for the anthem disrespectful?

Kaepernick has said on numerous occasions that the sole purpose of kneeling during the national anthem is not to disrespect the military personnel at all, but rather that his goal is to use his social platform to bring topics regarding police brutality and oppression of people of color to light.