the war of 1812

The War of 1812 is often overlooked. But though no territory was won nor allies liberated, it gave the young nation a sense of identity and, eventually, its national anthem.

THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER tells the epic story of the war and, particularly, the siege of Fort McHenry in Baltimore. Historians and scholars reveal how, had the fort fallen, the consequences might have been disastrous the British had already taken the White House and burned the capital. But the commander of the fort, in an expression of confidence, commissioned a flag 32 feet high and 40 feet long. After 25 hours of bombardment, the British fleet retreated. In the smoky dawn, the giant flag was raised. Discover how the victory inspired Francis Scott Key, a local lawyer, to pen a patriotic poem in tribute. Francis Scott Key III tells how his forefather's words were soon sung around town to the tune of a popular drinking song. But it would be more than a century until it was officially adapted as the national anthem.

No land won, no allies liberated, you capital ransacked while you soldiers held a fort.

Great victory

Giles