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The National Anthem

Singing the national anthem is a tradition at most sporting events.

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Have you ever been to a baseball or football game? Do you remember the national anthem being sung or played before the game? You may have noticed that the game did not begin until after the song was finished. During the song, everyone stands. Hats are removed from people's heads. Hands are held over hearts and often people sing along.

Our national anthem is called “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Click through to learn a brief history of this song.

A map of Baltimore, Maryland.

During the War of 1812, Baltimore, Maryland, faced an attack by British forces.

A hand-written poem

“The Star-Spangled Banner” was originally a poem titled “Defense of Fort McHenry” written by Francis Scott Key.

Person on a boat with a telescope.

After the attack, Francis Scott Key saw the American flag still flying and he began to write the poem that we know today as “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Question

Who is the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner”?

Francis Scott Key is the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Click the play button to hear the Star Spangled Banner.