September 13 in American History

September 13, 1814 — the bombardment of Fort McHenry begins

British warships opened fire on Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor through the night. Watching from a truce ship, Francis Scott Key strained to see whether the fort's flag was still flying at dawn. It was — and the sight became the opening line of what would eventually be the national anthem.

Common Questions

What happened on September 13 in American history?

In 1814: the bombardment of Fort McHenry begins. British warships opened fire on Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor through the night.

Why is September 13 significant?

British warships opened fire on Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor through the night. Watching from a truce ship, Francis Scott Key strained to see whether the fort's flag was still flying at dawn. It was — and the sight became the opening line of what would eventually be the national anthem.

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