Was the Official Anthem a British Matelot’s Song?
Do you ever wonder if the music for the American national anthem The Star-Spangled Banner could be traced back to a British ship? Well, it seems like the legend is more myth than fact. Let's dive into the fascinating history that surrounds this iconic piece of American music and debunk some of the popular myths before we get to the truth.
Origins of the Anthem: The Star-Spangled Banner
John Ross Key, son of Francis Scott Key (the author of the national anthem), wrote a lengthy essay about the creation of the anthem. He describes the moment of inspiration that led to the writing of The Defence of Fort M’Henry, inspired by the successful defense of the fort during the War of 1812.
A popular legend has it that Francis Scott Key heard British sailors singing a bawdy song called To Anacreon in Heaven and thought that the melody would suit his poem just fine. However, this romantic tale is far from the truth. Let's explore the facts.
Music, Lyrics, and the Form of Songs in the 19th Century
In the early 19th century, there weren't as many popular tunes in circulation as there are today. Consequently, catchy melodies often attracted a sequence of new lyrics, allowing them to adapt to various contexts. The song in question, The Anacreon Song, was already well-known, having been sung in different forms all over the United States long before it became the melody for the national anthem.
John Stafford Smith, the composer of the music, was 64 years old when Francis Scott Key used it for the anthem. It's almost absurd to think of copyright theft in those times, especially considering that Smith himself was known for collecting and publishing songs by other composers. In fact, he is considered the world's first musicologist.
The Myth and Reality of National Anthem Copyright
It's clear that the music was not stolen but used because it was popular and well-known. Additionally, the concept of copyright and theft of songs was not recognized in the same way today. This revelation reveals the absurdity of the legend that the music had British nationality.
For those Americans who feel guilty about this “aged crime,” there is a way to make amends. HM Warships from the United Kingdom periodically visit the United States, and their crews are easily recognizable. If you want to show your guilt, you can make a small payment to their descendants. However, it's best to offer them rum, bourbon, or beer as a gift, as they are a proud lot and cash might not be well-received.
Political and Cultural Context
The notion that songs have anticipatory nationalities is very silly, and the "British" tag was just part of a secessionist ploy. The actual cause was political rather than geographical. However, it is noteworthy that Anacreon was written in London and would have spread to the provinces and colonies quickly.
In conclusion, the idea that the American national anthem’s music originated from a British sailor's song is a charming legend. The true history of the anthem's creation is a blend of patriotism, poetry, and the cultural exchange that has always characterized the United States.