What was the original name of the Star-Spangled Banner? This iconic American national anthem, which was inspired by the sight of the American flag waving over Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814, had a different name when it was first written. The original title of the song was “The Defence of Fort M’Henry,” and it was penned by Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and poet from Maryland.
The Star-Spangled Banner was written on September 14, 1814, and it quickly gained popularity among the American public. However, it wasn’t until 1931 that it was officially adopted as the national anthem of the United States. The song’s lyrics were set to the tune of a popular English drinking song called “To Anacreon in Heaven,” composed by John Stafford Smith.
Francis Scott Key, who was aboard a British ship during the battle, witnessed the American flag being raised over Fort McHenry after a fierce 25-hour bombardment. The sight of the flag still standing inspired him to write the poem that would later become the national anthem. The first verse of the poem reads:
In the dawn’s early light,
A rocket’s red glare,
A bomb bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night
That our flag was still there.
Key’s poem was published in a Baltimore newspaper, and it quickly caught the attention of the public. Over the years, the song has been performed by numerous artists and has become a symbol of American pride and resilience.
The name “The Defence of Fort M’Henry” reflects the song’s original purpose, which was to celebrate the American victory at the Battle of Baltimore and to honor the bravery of the soldiers who fought to defend the fort. The name also highlights the importance of the flag as a symbol of American identity and independence.
In conclusion, the original name of the Star-Spangled Banner was “The Defence of Fort M’Henry,” a title that underscores the song’s origins and its significance in American history. Today, the anthem remains a powerful expression of national pride and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought for the United States.
