Francis Scott Key is known for writing the Star Spangled Banner, also known as the National Anthem of the United States. During the war of 1812, Key, a lawyer, was aboard the British ship HMS Tonnant negotiating the release of a political prisoner when the Battle of Baltimore broke out centered around Fort McHenry. At dawn the next day, Key reported seeing the American flag waving over Fort McHenry and had the inspiration to write a poem upon which the anthem is based. The song, based on Key's poem, was adopted as the United States national anthem in 1916 by Executive order from President Woodrow Wilson.
Born - August 1, 1779
Died - January 11, 1843
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Francis Scott Key, the Reluctant Patriot
From Smithsonian.com
Francis Scott Key
From the Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Francis Scott Key
From Garden of Praise.com
Francis Scott Key
From NPS.gov
Star-Spangled Banner
From the American Treasures of the Library of Congress
Francis Scott Key 1780-1843
From US Flag.org
The Star-Spangled Banner Lesson
From the National Park Service. "The Rockets' Red Glare": Francis Scott Key and the Bombardment of Fort McHenry
Francis Scott Key Biography
From Who2.com
Star Spangled Banner
From National Institutes of Health, Department of Health & Human Services. Lyrics and accompanying music.
Francis Scott Key
From Famous Why?