Illustrates three verses of our national anthem, written at the battle of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. Includes music, background history, and pictures of flags used in the United States, past and present.

Stand up, everyone! It's time to sing "The Star Spangled Banner"! But why is this song our national anthem? What do the words mean? A class of first-grade students learns the answers to these questions and finds about the dramatic circumstances Frances Scott Key faced when he wrote the poem that became our national anthem.

The inspiring story behind the national anthem and the American flag comes alive in this "page-turning narrative [with] generous archival illustrations" (Kirkus, starred review). "O say can you see" begins one of the most recognizable songs in the US. Originally a poem by Francis Scott Key, the national anthem tells the story of the American flag rising high above a fort after a night of intense battle during the War of 1812. But there is...

What So Proudly We Hailed is the first full-length biography of Francis Scott Key in more than 75 years. In this fascinating look at early America, historian Marc Leepson explores the life and legacy of Francis Scott Key. Standing alongside Betsy Ross, Thomas Paine, Patrick Henry, Paul Revere, and John Hancock in history, Key made his mark as an American icon by one single and unforgettable act, writing "The Star-Spangled Banner." Among other things,...

It was September 14, 1814, and America and Great Britain were at war. Francis Scott Key watched from the deck of a British ship, where he was being held captive, as cannons exploded around them. After 25 hours, the fighting ceased and Key peered through the clearing smoke, looking for some sign as to the outcome of the battle. Was the American flag still flying? His wartime experience inspired Key to write a poem, which was later set to music and...

Introduce emerging readers to our national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." Key facts, such as the song's composer, lyricist, and number of verses, are presented in a straightforward fashion. Images of Francis Scott Key, Fort McHenry, and many singing Americans bring this book to life.

"Presents the full text of "The Star-Spangled Banner" in both its original version and in a translated version using everyday language. Describes the events that led to the creation of America's national anthem and its significance through history"--Provided by publisher.

Describes the events that led Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner" and discusses the meaning of the song and its importance as the national anthem of the United States. In 1814, a young American lawyer named Francis Scott Key watched as British troops attacked Fort McHenry in Baltimore. In the end, the American flag still waved above the fort. Filled with emotion, Key wrote the first lines of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Discover the meanings and history behind some of Americas most beloved patriotic songs.