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The Star Spangled Banner Our National Banner The original words

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In celebration of the Congressional adoption of "The Star Spangled Banner" as the national anthem of the United States of America on March 3rd, 1931, these links will tell you of the history of the banner itself and the song that made it famous. "The Star Spangled Banner" was written by Francis Scott Key, a Washington, D.C., lawyer, during the War of 1812. After watching the British naval bombardment of Fort McHenry on September 13th and 14th, 1814, Key was moved to write the first verses on the back of a letter he had in his pocket. He finished the poem, originally entitled "Defense of Fort McHenry," over the next few days. It was printed in the Baltimore Patriot newspaper for the first time on September 20th, 1814.

Click the triangle "Play" button to listen. Midi Music Control Panel "The Star Spangled Banner" If this panel won't work, click HERE! Web Sites MLEC National Anthem Lyrics Lyrics in a pop-up window, from the MLEC Student Web Page (click the US Flag there). Flag of the United States Virtually anything you want to know about our flag - history, etiquette, more. Fort McHenry Web Site National Monument and Historic Shrine, from the National Park Service. Fort McHenry Teacher's Guide Lesson plans and handouts, from the National Park Service. Francis Scott Key Biography. Library of Congress American Treasures Pictures of the Star Spangled Banner's original verses, sheet music and more. Lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner Complete lyrics, from InfoPlease. Making Fort McHenry's Flag Mary Young Pickersgill sewed a flag that measured 30 feet by 42 feet. Smithsonian's Star Spangled Banner Site Information about the nation's flag and how it got it's name. Star Spangled Banner Article Short Encarta article, with links. Star Spangled Banner Links Midi music, and links all about the Star Spangled Banner. Star Spangled Banner Story The story of the writing of the song, both the official version and what really happened.   Top Of Page | Previous Page