Today marks 203 years since Francis Scott Key penned a poem that would officially become America's national anthem in 1931, according to si.edu.
The poem, originally titled Defence of Fort McHenry, was written after Key witnessed the British attacking the Maryland fort with military rockets during the War of 1812. In the darkness, Key saw red erupting in the night sky and was certain the British would win. As the dawn arrived and the smoke cleared on Sept. 14, 1814, Key was inspired by the sight of a lone U.S. flag, tattered, but still flying over the fort, signifying an American victory.
In honor of this anniversary, watch this acoustic rendition of the "The Star-Spangled Banner," performed by guitarist Keegan McClellan. The three-minute video was shot in 13 locations from coast to coast across the United States.
The poem, originally titled Defence of Fort McHenry, was written after Key witnessed the British attacking the Maryland fort with military rockets during the War of 1812. In the darkness, Key saw red erupting in the night sky and was certain the British would win. As the dawn arrived and the smoke cleared on Sept. 14, 1814, Key was inspired by the sight of a lone U.S. flag, tattered, but still flying over the fort, signifying an American victory.
In honor of this anniversary, watch this acoustic rendition of the "The Star-Spangled Banner," performed by guitarist Keegan McClellan. The three-minute video was shot in 13 locations from coast to coast across the United States.
