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John Stafford Smith is a composer known for his contribution to the music world, including his connection to "The Star-Spangled Banner." Here are some interesting facts about him and the famous American national anthem:

1. Composer of "To Anacreon in Heaven": John Stafford Smith was an English composer who composed the music for the song "To Anacreon in Heaven." This melody later became the basis for "The Star-Spangled Banner."

2. "The Star-Spangled Banner" Lyrics: The lyrics for "The Star-Spangled Banner" were written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. Key wrote the lyrics to fit the melody of Smith's "To Anacreon in Heaven."

3. Not an American: John Stafford Smith was British, not American. He was born in Gloucester, England, in 1750.

4. Anacreontic Society: The song "To Anacreon in Heaven" was originally composed for the Anacreontic Society, a gentlemen's club in London dedicated to music, drinking, and good company. The song celebrated the joys of drinking and camaraderie.

5. National Anthem: "The Star-Spangled Banner" officially became the United States national anthem on March 3, 1931, when President Herbert Hoover signed it into law. This recognition came over a century after the lyrics were written.

6. Musical Legacy: John Stafford Smith's melody has left a lasting legacy as the tune for the American national anthem, making it one of the most recognizable and cherished songs in the United States.

So, while John Stafford Smith was not American himself, his composition "To Anacreon in Heaven" played a pivotal role in the creation of the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner."