The Burning of D.C. and the Star-Spangled Banner
The Burning of D.C. and the Star-Spangled Banner is a Grade 5 history skill from Pengi Social Studies. Students learn how British forces burned Washington D.C. in August 1814 during the War of 1812, and how the Battle of Baltimore inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star-Spangled Banner after watching the defense of Fort McHenry.
Key Concepts
The war had dramatic moments. In 1814, British troops captured Washington D.C. and burned the White House.
However, the Americans held firm at Baltimore. During the British bombardment of Fort McHenry , a witness named Francis Scott Key saw the U.S. flag still flying at dawn.
Inspired, he wrote the poem "The Star Spangled Banner," which later became the national anthem. The war ended with the Treaty of Ghent, creating a new sense of American national pride.
Common Questions
Why did the British burn Washington D.C.?
In August 1814, British forces burned Washington D.C., including the White House and Capitol, in retaliation for American forces burning the Canadian city of York (Toronto) earlier.
What is the Star-Spangled Banner?
The Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem of the United States. Francis Scott Key wrote the poem after witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814.
Who was Francis Scott Key?
Francis Scott Key was an American lawyer who was held on a British ship during the bombardment of Fort McHenry. Seeing the American flag still flying at dawn inspired him to write the poem that became the national anthem.
What happened at Fort McHenry?
Fort McHenry in Baltimore successfully withstood a British naval bombardment in September 1814, keeping the city from being captured.
What grade covers the burning of D.C. and the Star-Spangled Banner?
This is a Grade 5 social studies history topic.