Francis Scott Key’s Star-Spangled Banner
Francis Scott Key’s Star-Spangled Banner introduces children to Francis Scott Key – a very busy man and lawyer who many people came to for advice. Though he and his wife had 11 children, whenever he had a moment, he would jot down a line of poetry. He truly loved writing poems!
When the War of 1812 broke out, Francis became even busier. As a well-respected man, people often called upon him to help keep the peace during the war.
One fateful night Francis and his friend helped talk the British Navy into releasing a prisoner of war. But they couldn’t return home just yet because the Battle of Fort McHenry was starting! If the British captured the fort, America might very well lose its independence.
Francis and his friends could only sit on a boat and observe the battle. For 25 hours they watched in awe. What Francis saw inspired him to write a poem that would become America’s national anthem!
- This visually stunning book provides an excellent read-aloud for children ages 5 to 7. Heart of Dakota’s Little Hearts for His Glory teacher’s guide schedules this Visual History Set book and also includes follow-ups for it in the Picture the Past box of plans.
