This book takes you back to one of the most dramatic nights in American history-the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812. As British rockets and bombs rained down on Fort McHenry, a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key watched anxiously from a ship in the harbor. Through the smoke and explosions, he kept looking for the American flag flying over the fort. If it was still there at dawn, it meant America had survived the attack.In this book, the verses of the anthem are explained line by line, so you can understand not just the words, but the history and sacrifice behind them. With illustrations, maps, and stories of the people who lived through the bombardment, The Star-Spangled Banner - Explained helps today's students see why our flag and anthem are symbols of freedom, bravery, and resilience.