The U.S. national anthem describes dead bodies and burning buildings—and most Americans only know the first verse.

Culture Drop (@CultureDrop)

"The Star-Spangled Banner" was written in 1814 during the War of 1812 by Francis Scott Key watching Fort Henry burn. The lyrics describe 'the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air.' Verses 3 and 4 celebrate dead British soldiers. Americans only sing verse 1, but the full anthem is essentially war propaganda wrapped in patriotic language.

0 reactions

0 comments