8.6: The Untold Story of “The Star Spangled Banner”

You probably learned in school all about the story of Francis Scott Key watching the “rockets red glare” and “bombs bursting in air” as a prisoner on a British warship and turning the experience into “The Star Spangled Banner.” But, in reality, there is a lot more to this story than you learned about in history class — and a lot of what you did learn in school was false.

In this replay of one of our Untold Stories episodes, we unpack the man behind “The Star Spangled Banner,” how it became our National Anthem, and whether it truly represents American values. It’s the perfect episode to revisit for the Fourth of July holiday.

Juneteenth Jubilee

Juneteenth was on June 19th, but there is still time to celebrate — in fact, the Fourth of July is a great time to talk about Juneteenth! We have an exciting program to help you celebrate! Juneteenth Jubilee gives you everything you need to have a meaningful Juneteenth celebration dinner.

It includes a cookbook, a cooking show with my dad, a meal planner, reflection questions and more! Trust me, this is something your family is going to want — both for the yummy food and for the impactful conversations.

Even if you didn’t celebrate on the actual day of Juneteenth, it’s not too late to take the time to celebrate and reflect. So click here to invest in this resource to create a meaningful celebration for your family!

Invite Jasmine to work with your school!

Are you a parent or teacher who wants to help your school turn good intentions into positive action by making anti-racist education a priority? First Name Basis is here to help!

Jasmine Bradshaw, the host and founder of the First Name Basis Podcast, is an anti-racist educator and former second-grade teacher who has a passion for helping schools make real change. Whether you’re looking for a keynote speaker at your next PTA event, want to implement our Ally Elementary curriculum at your school, or need someone to consult with your school and provide teacher trainings, Jasmine is your go-to resource.

Email [email protected] or visit firstnamebasis.org/workwithme for more information!

Articles, Studies, & Podcasts Referenced in the Episode

Annotated National Anthem

“The Short History of the War of 1812 in Maryland”

“Star Spangled Bigotry: The Hidden Racist History of the National Anthem” by Jason Johnson

“What So Proudly We Hail,” Documentary from Morgan State University

“Francis Scott Key Opposed ‘Land of the Free’” by Jefferson Morley, Zinn Education Project

“Where’s the Debate of Francis Scott Key’s Slaveholding Legacy” by Christopher Wilson, Smithsonian Magazine

“Star Spangled Banner Born From a Drinking Song 200 Years Ago,” NPR

“The Fight for the Anthem” by Felicity Knox, Towson University

Oscar Stanton De Priest

“Mississippi Lawmakers Pass Resolution Paving Way to Remove Confederate Symbol from State Flag” by Brittany Shammas, The Washington Post

Song Credit: “Clapping Music” by BrightestAvenue and “Sunshine” by lemonmusicstudio