Francis Scott Key

Date of Birth: August 1, 1779

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: January 11, 1843

Biography

Francis Scott Key was a distinguished American lawyer, author, and amateur poet, most renowned for penning the lyrics to “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which later became the national anthem of the United States. Born into a prominent family in Maryland, Key pursued a career in law and became a respected attorney in Georgetown. He witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, an event that inspired him to write the poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” which was later set to music and became known as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Key’s contributions to American culture and history extend beyond his famous poem. He was involved in various civic duties, including serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. Throughout his life, Key balanced his legal career with his passion for poetry and music, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated today.

5 Interesting Facts about Francis Scott Key

1. Francis Scott Key was a deeply religious man and a devout Episcopalian.

2. He was a close friend of President Andrew Jackson and served as his confidant and legal advisor.

3. Key was involved in several prominent legal cases, including the defense of Sam Houston during his trial for assaulting a Congressman.

4. He was an advocate for the American Colonization Society, which promoted the resettlement of freed African Americans to Africa.

5. Key’s poem “The Star-Spangled Banner” was set to the tune of a popular British song called “To Anacreon in Heaven.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis Scott Key

1. “The rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.”

2. “Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, and this be our motto: ‘In God is our trust.’”

3. “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

4. “Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave.”

5. “Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heaven rescued land praise the Power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Francis Scott Key’s net worth is difficult to quantify in modern terms, but he was considered well-off due to his successful legal career and family wealth.

Children

Francis Scott Key had eleven children with his wife Mary Tayloe Lloyd. Some of their notable children include: 1. Philip Barton Key, who served as the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. 2. Alice Green Key, who married into the prominent Lee family of Virginia. 3. Francis Key Howard, who was a noted writer and editor.