Analysis Of The Star Spangled Banner

Many countries have patriotic songs that are sung and known throughout the country. Today, sang at patriotic and sporting events, the “Star-Spangled Banner” is officially the United States of America’s national anthem. The original poem was written by Francis Scott Key in the 19th century, and “his words told of an exciting sea battle. They also celebrated a great military upset on land, one that filled all Americans with pride” (Sonneborn 20). Many factors helped influence and inspire the writing of the song. The “Star-Spangled Banner” is a powerful anthem for the United States because of the inspiration of one battle, one man, and one flag.

The Battle of Baltimore, taking place during the War of 1812, was the event that inspired the writing of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Not long after the United States won its independence from English, the young country was once again at war with England in the War of 1812 (Georgiady and Romano 6). After destroying Washington, the capital, the British continued towards Baltimore, seeking revenge for the 500 ships they lost to the city’s privateers (Poole). Following its successful attack on Alexandria, Virginia, the British naval force entered Baltimore Harbor and prepared to attack Fort McHenry (The Star-Spangled Banner Project), located in the Baltimore Harbor (Edwin). During a battle with American troops, British General Ross was killed, forcing the British to delay their attack until the night of September 13 to attack again (The