Who Wrote The National Anthem
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“The Star-Spangled Banner” is the national anthem of the United States of America, and it has held this distinction since 1931, when it was officially adopted by Congress. The lyrics for this patriotic hymn were written by Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and poet from Maryland who witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812 by British forces.
The musical score to accompany the song was based on a popular drinking tune from the era known as “To Anacreon in Heaven,” and it was composed by John Stafford Smith, an English composer and organist. Smith wrote this piece in 1778, and it eventually became a favorite of the popular American social club, Anacreontic Society, for whom it was originally intended.
It wasn’t until 1931 during the 100th anniversary of Key’s writing, however, that “The Star-Spangled Banner” was officially adopted as America’s national anthem. Prior to then, many other songs had been used as national anthems over the years, including “My Country, ‘Tis Of Thee,” “America The Beautiful,” and “Hail Columbia.”
The song has been the subject of many stories and controversies throughout its history and remains one of the most beloved patriotic tunes of the modern day, closely associated with the American promise of liberty and justice for all.