Francis Scott Key

Francis Scott Key

Francis Scott Key was born on August 1st, 1779

Full Name: Francis Scott Key
Nationality: American
Profession: Lawyer, Author, and Poet
Place of Birth: Frederick, Maryland
Notable Work: The Star-Spangled Banner
Inspirations: War of 1812
Education: St. Johns College
Death: 1843

Wrote the lyrics to "The Star-Spangled Banner," the national anthem of the United States, after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Navy in 1814. He was a prominent lawyer and poet of his time.

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Francis Scott Key: The Poet Behind the Star-Spangled Banner

Francis Scott Key is synonymous with the American national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner". Born on August 1, 1779, in Frederick, Maryland, Key wrote the iconic poem that would become the country's most revered song, cementing his place in American history.

A Poetic Inspiration

In 1814, during the War of 1812, Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry. As he watched the American flag still waving defiantly above the fort at dawn, he was inspired to write the poem "Defence of Fort M'Henry". The poem was published within a week, set to the popular tune "To Anacreon in Heaven", and eventually became known as "The Star-Spangled Banner".

A Life of Law and Letters

Key was a successful lawyer in Maryland and Washington, D.C. for four decades, taking on high-profile cases, including the Burr conspiracy trial. He argued numerous times before the Supreme Court and was nominated for District Attorney for the District of Columbia by President Andrew Jackson, serving from 1833 to 1841.

A Complex Legacy

Key was a devout Episcopalian and a complex figure, often at odds with his own words. He owned slaves from 1800, despite penning the iconic lines "Land of the Free and Home of the Brave". As District Attorney, he suppressed abolitionists and lost a case against Reuben Crandall in 1836, accusing the defendants' abolitionist publications of instigating slaves to rebel.

A Life of Contradictions

Key was also a leader of the American Colonization Society, which sent former slaves to Africa. He freed some of his slaves in the 1830s, paying one as his farm foreman to supervise his other slaves. He publicly criticized slavery and gave free legal representation to some slaves seeking freedom, but also represented owners of runaway slaves.

At the time of his death in 1843, Key still owned eight slaves.

Early Life and Family

Key was born into an affluent family. His father, John Ross Key, was a lawyer and a commissioned officer. Key's upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of morality and a passion for literature, laying the groundwork for his future success.

Legacy and Impact

Key's poem, "The Star-Spangled Banner", slowly gained popularity as an unofficial anthem, finally achieving official status as the national anthem in 1931, under President Herbert Hoover. His legacy extends beyond his iconic poem, with his work as a lawyer, abolitionist, and critic of slavery leaving an indelible mark on American history.

Today, Francis Scott Key is remembered as a complex figure, whose words continue to inspire and divide. His poem remains an enduring symbol of American patriotism, a testament to the power of literature to shape our understanding of ourselves and our nation.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Timeline
1779
Born in Frederick
Francis Scott Key was born in Frederick, Maryland. He would go on to become a famous lawyer, author, and poet.
1801
Graduated from St. Johns College
Francis Scott Key graduated from St. Johns College in Annapolis, Maryland.
1814
Wrote The Star-Spangled Banner
Francis Scott Key wrote The Star-Spangled Banner, which would later become the national anthem of the United States.
1837
Became a Judge
Francis Scott Key became a judge in the District of Columbia, serving for 15 years.
1843
Died in Baltimore
Francis Scott Key died in Baltimore, Maryland, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy as a famous lawyer, author, and poet.
Francis Scott Key

Francis Scott Key Quiz

What was Francis Scott Key's profession besides being a poet?

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FAQ
What is Francis Scott Keys most famous work?
Francis Scott Keys most famous work is The Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States. The poem, written in 1814, commemorates the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Navy during the War of 1812.
How did Francis Scott Keys experiences as a lawyer influence his writing?
Francis Scott Keys experiences as a lawyer had a significant impact on his writing, as he often drew upon his knowledge of law and politics to inform his poetry and other literary works.
What was Francis Scott Keys role in the War of 1812?
Francis Scott Key played a significant role in the War of 1812 as a negotiator and mediator between the American and British governments. He helped to secure the release of American prisoners and witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry.
How did Francis Scott Keys poetry reflect his patriotism and love of country?
Francis Scott Keys poetry reflected his patriotism and love of country through its themes of national pride, freedom, and unity. His poetry often celebrated American ideals and values, and The Star-Spangled Banner has become an anthem of American identity.
What is Francis Scott Keys legacy in American literature?
Francis Scott Keys legacy in American literature is that of a poet and writer who helped shape the American identity through his work. His poetry and other writings continue to inspire Americans today, and The Star-Spangled Banner remains an iconic symbol of American culture.

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