Who wrote the Star Spangled Banner?

The Star-Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. Key was inspired to pen the lyrics after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British forces in 1814. He wrote the poem initially titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry" while observing the American flag still flying over the fort at dawn. This moment captured his patriotic sentiment, and over time, the poem would be set to music and officially become the national anthem of the United States.

Understanding the historical context of the Star-Spangled Banner and its origins provides insight into American resilience and patriotism during a tumultuous time in the nation's early history. The other options do not relate to the authorship of the anthem, as Thomas Jefferson was primarily known for drafting the Declaration of Independence, George Washington was the first president and a key figure in the American Revolutionary War, and Abraham Lincoln is historically known for leading the country during the Civil War and delivering the Gettysburg Address.