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Francis Scott Key is best known for writing the lyrics to "The Star-Spangled Banner," the United States' national anthem. Here are some interesting facts about him and the anthem:

1. "The Star-Spangled Banner" Origin: Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics to the anthem during the War of 1812. He was inspired by the sight of the American flag, with 15 stars and 15 stripes, still flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore after a night of British bombardment on September 13-14, 1814.

2. Amateur Poet: Key was a lawyer by profession and not a professional poet. He wrote the lyrics as a poem titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry" initially, and it was later set to the tune of a popular British song, "To Anacreon in Heaven."

3. Publication: Key's poem was first published in a Baltimore newspaper, the American and Commercial Daily Advertiser, on September 20, 1814.

4. Official Anthem: "The Star-Spangled Banner" was not officially designated as the national anthem until 1931 when President Herbert Hoover signed it into law. Before that, it had been a popular patriotic song.

5. Music History: The melody used for "The Star-Spangled Banner" comes from the English song "To Anacreon in Heaven," which was composed by John Stafford Smith in the late 18th century. Key's lyrics were written to fit this existing tune.

6. Lengthy Original Version: The original poem had four stanzas, but only the first stanza is commonly sung today. The other three stanzas contain historical references and vivid descriptions of the battle.

7. Preservation of the Original Manuscript: The original manuscript of Francis Scott Key's poem is preserved in the Maryland Historical Society in Baltimore.

8. Key's Role: In addition to being a poet and lawyer, Key was also involved in various civic and legal activities. He served as the U.S. District Attorney for the District of Columbia and was involved in several prominent legal cases during his career.

9. Commemorative Events: Key's legacy is celebrated annually on September 14th, known as "Defenders Day" in Maryland, to commemorate the Battle of Fort McHenry and the writing of the anthem.

10. Monument: A monument dedicated to Francis Scott Key was erected in Baltimore near the site where he wrote "The Star-Spangled Banner." It stands in what is now known as Key's Federal Hill Park.

Francis Scott Key's poem-turned-anthem has become an enduring symbol of American patriotism, played at numerous national events and ceremonies throughout the United States.