The Star-Spangled Banner : the making of an American icon
(Book)

"Published in association with the National Museum of American History, Kenneth E. Behring Center."

Includes bibliographical references (pages 168-173) and index.

Shares the story behind the writing of "The Star-Spangled Banner," in 1814, telling how Francis Scott Key, having witnessed a critical battle between British and U.S. troops from a truce ship, was inspired to write the song after seeing the garrison flag still flying over Fort Henry in Baltimore, Maryland; discusses the Smithsonian Institute's efforts to preserve the actual flag; and considers how the song and the flag have come to symbolize American patriotism and pride.