Poem: Defence of Fort McHenry

Introduction
"Defence of Fort McHenry", composed by Francis Scott Key on September 14, 1814, is a poem famously understood for being the source of the national anthem of the United States, "The Star-Spangled Banner". The poem, set during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812, is a majestic and riveting literary testament to the bravery and unwavering spirit of the American defenders at Fort McHenry, who effectively repulsed the British attack. It is a patriotic piece filled with images, enthusiasm, and a require nationwide unity.

Historic Context
The War of 1812, battled between the United States and the British Empire primarily over trade disputes, had actually been raging on for two years prior to the occasions explained in Key's poem. In August 1814, the British had burned down the White House and other prominent American structures in Washington, D.C. Turning their attention to the bustling port city of Baltimore, the British sought to strike a decisive blow against the United States.

Fort McHenry, located in Baltimore Harbor, was a primary defense against any seaborne invasion from the British Royal Navy. The British began their barrage of the fort on September 13, 1814, which lasted for twenty-five hours. Francis Scott Key, an American attorney and amateur poet, was aboard a British ship to protect the release of a prisoner when the barrage began. He was detained aboard the ship for the duration of the attack, and it was from this special vantage point that Key composed his well-known poem, influenced by the sight of the American flag flying triumphantly over the beleaguered fort.

Poetic Imagery
The poem starts with a scene set in the twilight of morning, as the narrator anxiously looks for visual confirmation of the beleaguered fort's condition: "O state can you see, by the dawn's early light/ What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming". Throughout the poem, the American flag acts as a sign of hope and nerve; its existence throughout the night assures the narrator that the fort still certainly stands versus the British assault.

The poem strongly explains the turmoil and confusion of fight, with pictures of "the rockets' red glare, the bombs rupturing in air/ Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there". This functions as a reminder of the physical reality of war, in which bravery and sacrifice are necessary for the survival of freedom and independence.

National Identity and Patriotism
"Defence of Fort McHenry" reinforces the importance of national unity and pride. Secret's poem celebrates a shared American identity that transcends geographical, religious, and ideological divisions, composing: "Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just/ And this be our slogan: 'In God is our trust!'/ And the star-spangled banner in accomplishment shall wave/ O'er the land of the complimentary and the house of the brave". These lines communicate a sense of nationwide fate and belief in American exceptionalism, which would come to specify the United States throughout its history.

Tradition
Key's words were put to music by his brother-in-law, Joseph H. Nicholson, who set the lyrics to an existing tune titled "To Anacreon in Heaven". The tune rapidly ended up being popular in the United States, and on March 3, 1931, it was officially adopted as the national anthem through a congressional resolution.

The poem's ongoing significance as a foundation of American cultural identity is indisputable. "Defence of Fort McHenry" records the spirit and determination of early American patriots and serves as a long-lasting reminder of the worths and sacrifices that have shaped the nation because its creation. With "The Star-Spangled Banner" continuing to be heard at major occasions and events, Key's words continue to stir the hearts and minds of millions of Americans and people worldwide.