The Star Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States, is a symbol of American patriotism and freedom. Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, the lyrics have been a source of inspiration and pride for Americans for centuries. If you're looking for a way to display your love for America, you can print out the Star Spangled Banner lyrics and hang them in your home or office. In this article, we'll provide you with free printable Star Spangled Banner lyrics and explore the history and significance of this iconic song.
History of the Star Spangled Banner
The Star Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key, a Maryland lawyer and amateur poet, during the War of 1812. Key was aboard a British ship negotiating the release of American prisoners when he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British Navy. As the sun rose on September 14, 1814, Key saw the American flag still waving above the fort, indicating that it had withstood the attack.
Inspired by this moment, Key wrote a poem titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry," which later became known as "The Star-Spangled Banner." The poem was set to the tune of a popular British song, "To Anacreon in Heaven," and became a popular patriotic song throughout the United States.
Adoption as National Anthem
In 1889, the U.S. Navy officially adopted "The Star-Spangled Banner" as its anthem, and it quickly became a standard at government events and public gatherings. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that the song be played at all official events, and in 1931, Congress passed a resolution making it the national anthem of the United States.
Free Printable Star Spangled Banner Lyrics
Here are the free printable Star Spangled Banner lyrics:
O say can you see, by the dawn's early light, What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming, Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep, Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep, As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses? Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam, In full glory reflected now shines in the stream: 'Tis the star-spangled banner – Oh long may it wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
And where is that band who so vauntingly swore That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion A home and a country should leave us no more? Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave: And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Oh, thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved homes and the war's desolation. Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n-rescued land Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation. Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And this be our motto – "In God is our trust." And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Why Display the Star Spangled Banner Lyrics
Displaying the Star Spangled Banner lyrics in your home or office is a great way to show your patriotism and appreciation for American history. Here are a few reasons why you might want to display the lyrics:
- Patriotism: The Star Spangled Banner is a symbol of American patriotism and freedom. Displaying the lyrics is a way to show your love for America and your appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have defended our country.
- Historical significance: The Star Spangled Banner is an important part of American history, and displaying the lyrics is a way to connect with that history.
- Inspiration: The lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner are inspiring and uplifting, and displaying them can be a way to motivate and inspire yourself and others.
Ways to Display the Star Spangled Banner Lyrics
There are many ways to display the Star Spangled Banner lyrics, including:
- Printing: You can print out the lyrics on paper or cardstock and hang them on a wall or place them on a shelf.
- Framing: You can frame the lyrics and hang them on a wall or place them on a shelf.
- Canvas: You can print the lyrics on canvas and hang them on a wall.
- Wood: You can print the lyrics on wood and hang them on a wall or place them on a shelf.
Conclusion
The Star Spangled Banner is an important part of American history and culture, and displaying the lyrics is a great way to show your patriotism and appreciation for American freedom. Whether you print, frame, or display the lyrics on canvas or wood, you can be proud to show your love for America. So go ahead, print out the free printable Star Spangled Banner lyrics and display them proudly!
Who wrote the Star Spangled Banner?
+The Star Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814.
What is the significance of the Star Spangled Banner?
+The Star Spangled Banner is a symbol of American patriotism and freedom, and its lyrics reflect the bravery and sacrifice of American soldiers during the War of 1812.
How can I display the Star Spangled Banner lyrics?
+You can print out the lyrics on paper or cardstock, frame them, print them on canvas or wood, or display them in a variety of other ways.