original draft of the star spangled banner song lyrics

The Original Draft of the Star Spangled Banner: A Glimpse into American History

On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key penned a poem that would eventually become the national anthem of the United States. The original draft of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the American people during the War of 1812.

Key's poem was inspired by his experience on board a British ship negotiating the release of Dr. William Beanes, a prisoner of war. As he watched the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Navy, he saw the American flag still waving above the fort after the attack. This momentous event sparked Key to write about the bravery and sacrifice of the American troops who had defended their nation.

The lyrics of the original draft are a vivid description of the events that unfolded on September 13-14, 1814. In Verse 1, Key asks if the reader can see by the dawn's early light what so proudly they hailed at twilight's last gleaming. He describes the broad stripes and bright stars streaming gallantly over the ramparts, with the rockets' red glare and bombs bursting in air providing proof that their flag was still waving through the night.

In Verse 2, Key describes the scene as he sees it from his vantage point on the British ship. He asks what is that which the breeze blows half-conceals, half-discloses, and then answers his own question by declaring that it is the star-spangled banner, shining in the stream with its morning glory reflected.

The original draft of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' is a powerful expression of American patriotism and national identity. The poem has undergone several revisions since Key wrote it, but its message remains unchanged – a tribute to the bravery and resilience of the American people. Today, the song serves as an important symbol of American history and culture, inspiring Americans and people around the world with its patriotic spirit.

Original draft of the star spangled banner song lyrics