677. USA: The Star-Spangled Banner (Part 1)
Summary
Hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook explore the origins of the US national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," as part of a World Cup series on national anthems. They detail Francis Scott Key’s experience witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, which inspired the poem. The episode also examines the controversial interpretation of the lyrics regarding slavery and Key’s complex relationship with the institution.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to the series
The Star-Spangled Banner and the War of 1812 context
Causes of the war and the burning of Washington
Francis Scott Key's mission and capture
The bombardment of Fort McHenry and the flag
Writing the poem and its publication as a broadside
Ad break and return to the topic
The 'hireling and slave' controversy and escaped slaves
Francis Scott Key's complex views on slavery
The song's evolution and adoption as the national anthem
Criticism of the anthem and alternative proposals
Modern controversies: Hendrix, Kaepernick, and protests
Conclusion and singing the anthem
Father's Day promotion and final sponsors
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