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On this day in 1814, the battle of Fort McHenry occurred during the War of 1812
September 13, 2023
An event every year that begins at 12:00 am on day 13 of September, repeating indefinitely
On this day in 1814, the Battle of Fort McHenry occurred during the War of 1812. The American victory at the battle inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner,” our national anthem. 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
Scott, a lawyer, and amateur poet were inspired by the flag flying over Fort McHenry after an all-night bombardment from the British from which the Americans emerged victoriously. The poem was quickly picked up by newspapers on the East Coast.
Did you know? Scott originally set his verses to the tune of “To Anacreon in Heaven,” a popular English song. The song did not become our national anthem, however, until 1931 in the midst of Prohibition. Somewhat ironically, the melody is believed to have origins in a drinking song. 🥂🍻🍾
By Dawn’s Early Light, Edward Percy Moran, 1913
