The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has brought attention to the historical figure for whom it was named. Francis Scott Key was a prominent attorney in the early 19th century and is best known for writing the poem that would later become the national anthem of the United States. The poem, originally titled “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” was inspired by Key’s experience witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. The poem was later set to music and became known as “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Despite his patriotic contribution to American history, Francis Scott Key’s personal views on slavery have made him a controversial figure. Key came from a family that owned enslaved people and he himself owned slaves. He supported the idea of sending free Black people to Africa but was opposed to the abolition of slavery in the United States. This aspect of his background has led to calls for the removal of statues and monuments dedicated to him, including a statue in San Francisco that was taken down in June 2020. Key died in 1843, leaving behind a complicated legacy.
The Star-Spangled Banner, with its reference to the flag surviving a bombardment, became increasingly popular as a patriotic song over the 19th century. In March 1931, then-President Herbert Hoover officially designated it as the national anthem of the United States. The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland was named in his honor and was opened in 1977. The bridge has now collapsed after being struck by a ship, bringing renewed attention to the historical significance of its namesake and the anthem he wrote.
While the first verse of the national anthem is the most well-known, there are a total of four stanzas. In the third stanza, there is a reference made to a slave. The controversy surrounding Francis Scott Key’s views on slavery and his personal history has sparked debate about his legacy and the appropriate way to honor his contributions to American history. As the nation grapples with issues of racial inequality and social justice, figures like Key are being reevaluated in light of their complicated pasts.
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has raised questions about the safety and maintenance of infrastructure in the United States. The bridge, named after a key figure in American history, now serves as a reminder of the need to invest in infrastructure to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. As the country continues to reckon with its past and strive towards a more equitable future, the legacy of Francis Scott Key and the national anthem he penned remain part of a complex and ongoing conversation about American identity and history.
