the lyrics to the star spangled banner song

His father served in the Continental Army his uncle remained a British loyalist during the Revolution. Key was a persuasive addition to the negotiating team because of his close family ties to both the United States and England. burning of York (current day Toronto) in April 1813. William Beanes, a civilian non-combatant who had been taken prisoner by the British as they departed Washington, DC after burning the White House, the Capitol, and other government buildings in revenge for the U.S. They were on a mission of mercy to negotiate the release of the elderly Dr.

Agent for Prisoners of War, sailed from Baltimore on Septemon an American truce ship and headed down the Patapsco River hoping to meet the British fleet somewhere in the Chesapeake Bay. Myth #1: Francis Scott Key was held prisoner aboard a British ship during the bombardment of Baltimore.Ĭorrection: Key was aboard his own American truce ship during the battle. Francis Scott Key (credit: Wikimedia Commons) On September 14, 1814, the Battle of Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' The University of Michigan's Mark Clague corrects some common myths about our national anthem.

The lyrics to the star spangled banner song