On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key
What is the purpose of the national anthem?
The national anthem, like other national symbols of a country, represents the tradition, history, and beliefs of a nation and its people. Hence, it helps evoke feelings of patriotism among the country's citizens and reminds them of their nation's glory, beauty, and rich heritage.
Why did he write the national anthem?
Francis Scott Key wrote the “Star-Spangled Banner” as a joyous poem after he was relieved that the United States had preserved against British attack . Since then it has evolved into the national anthem for the United States and is played at official events, schools, and sporting events.
What is the true story of the Star-Spangled Banner?
“The Star-Spangled Banner” was penned by Francis Scott Key, a 19th-century lawyer who dabbled in poetry. Inspired by the Battle of Baltimore in 1814 , Keys was so moved at the American resilience he saw that he couldn't wait to write the lyrics — and scribbled them on the back side of a letter.
Is it mandatory to stand for the national anthem?
Since 1998, federal law (viz., the United States Code 36 U.S.C. § 301) states that during a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present including those in uniform should stand at attention; non-military service individuals should face the flag with the right hand over the heart; members of ...
Can soldiers move during the national anthem?
During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review, all persons present in uniform should render the military salute . ... All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.
What song almost became the national anthem?
President Herbert Hoover signs a congressional act making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the official national anthem of the United States.
Who wrote the original national anthem?
On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key pens a poem which is later set to music and in 1931 becomes America's national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The poem, originally titled “The Defence of Fort M'Henry,” was written after Key witnessed the Maryland fort being bombarded by the British during the War of 1812.
Why is the flag shorter today than when it was sewn?
The night before the battle, September 13, 1814. 4. Why is the flag so much shorter today than when it was sewn? ... The end of the flag was burned in the Battle of Baltimore.
What did the 15 stars on the flag represent?
Two stripes and two stars were added to the flag when Vermont and Kentucky became the 14th and 15th states in 1791 and 1792, respectively. The 15-star flag would last for 23 years and five presidents would serve under it .
Who narrates Star-Spangled Banner as you've never heard it?
KELLY MCEVERS , HOST: “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be playing all over the country tonight while fireworks go off. Few people know there are actually four official verses to the song.
Is it illegal to sing the national anthem wrong?
According to state law , if a person “plays, sings or renders the ”Star Spangled Banner” in any public place, theatre, motion picture hall, restaurant or cafe, or at any public entertainment, other than as a whole and separate composition or number, without embellishment or addition in the way of national or other ...
Do you consistently show respect to the flag and national anthem?
Above all else, when considering proper flag etiquette, always remember to respect our flag during a public ceremony or during the playing of the National Anthem. When the flag is presented in this situation, you should face the flag and stand at attention with your right hand over your heart.
Is it disrespectful for a civilian to salute a soldier?
Soldiers are required to perfect the military salute, as a sloppy salute is considered disrespectful . A proper salute involves raising the right hand with the fingers and thumb extended and joined together with the palm down.
Can you salute the flag in civilian clothes?
When in uniform indoors, stand at attention, face the flag and remain silent, but you don't salute. However, if the participants are primarily civilians or in civilian clothes, you may recite the Pledge of Allegiance if you wish .
