Question

Francis Scott Key began writing the poem for the American National Anthem on board the British flagship HMS Tonnant and published it a few days later under the title____

Answer 1

Francis Scott Key began writing the poem 'In Defense of Fort McHenry' on board HMS Tonnant, inspired by the defense of Fort McHenry during the British bombardment in 1814, which led to the creation of 'The Star-Spangled Banner', the U.S. national anthem.

Step-by-step explanation:

Francis Scott Key commenced writing the poem that would become the American National Anthem on board the British flagship HMS Tonnant after witnessing the British bombardment of Baltimore's Fort McHenry in 1814. The siege was an intense battle, but the Americans held fast. Key was moved upon seeing the American flag still flying over the fort the morning after the attack, symbolizing a U.S. victory. He penned the poem initially titled "In Defense of Fort McHenry". The poem captured the resilience and spirit of the American people and was later set to music, borrowing from the tune of a British song known as "The Anacreontic Song". This combination of lyrics and melody eventually was formalized as "The Star-Spangled Banner", the national anthem of the United States.