Thursday, March 03, 2011

National Anthem Day

The United States adopted the Star Spangled Banner as its national anthem on March 3, 1931.
 

Star-Spangled Banner was originally written as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814. Key wrote the verses after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by Royal Navy ships during the War of 1812. During this time, American colonists often sang Key's lyrics to the tune of a popular British drinking song titled "The Anacreontic Song."

The tune soon became a well-known patriotic song that represented America's strength and endurance during trying times. However, it was not until March 3, 1931 that the Star-Spangled Banner was designated by Congress as the National Anthem of the United States.


Found these ideas on how to celebrate today e-How:


1. Visit the flag that inspired the song at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. The flag is on display for all to see, but don't try to see it until after Summer 2008. The National Museum of American History closed in late September for renovations and is scheduled to reopen Summer 2008.


2. Make a tax deductible contribution to help save the flag. The National Museum of American History is undergoing a major renovation. To do this, the Museum is in the middle of a $180 million appeal to all people who hold the museum close to their hearts. Once the museum renovation and flag preservation are complete, the flag will be housed in a new state of the art display case. Visit the Smithsonian website and give money to celebrate National Anthem Day.


3. Raise your flag on March 3. Follow proper flag flying etiquette. Fly the American flag above all other flags on display. Take down the flag in bad whether unless it is a weatherized flag. Never let the flag touch the ground.


4. Enjoy your country. America has endured. From the bombardment of Fort McHenry that encouraged the Star Spangled Banner and National Anthem day to the present state of the union, be proud to be an American and hold your head up. Be thankful for what you do have and remain faithful to National Anthem Day.


"The Star-Spangled Banner" Song & Video
Download FREE audio and video of our the Star Spangled Banner below (click on links).  This is from the National Anthem Project - visit the site direction by clicking HERE
 
Audio
Video
Listen to and Watch “The Star Spangled Banner” Performances
Audio
Video
"The Star-Spangled Banner" Sheet Music


Standard-Based Lesson Plans
from My Music Class, MENC's Lesson Plan Library (MENC member login required)




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