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

1. "The Star-Spangled Banner": Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics to "The Star-Spangled Banner" during the War of 1812. He was inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore after a night of heavy bombardment by British forces. The poem was originally titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry."

2. Amateur Poet: Key was a lawyer and amateur poet, not a professional writer. His poem was set to the tune of a popular British song, "To Anacreon in Heaven," which he thought would be a fitting melody for the patriotic lyrics.

3. Not Originally the National Anthem: "The Star-Spangled Banner" was officially designated as the U.S. national anthem on March 3, 1931, by a congressional resolution signed into law by President Herbert Hoover. Before that, the United States had used various patriotic songs at official events, but there was no official national anthem.

4. Religious Influence: Key was a devout Christian, and his faith influenced his writings. In the original poem, he included a reference to the "power that hath made and preserved us a nation." This reflected his belief in a higher power guiding and protecting the United States.

5. Controversial Stanzas: The original poem written by Key had four stanzas, but only the first stanza is commonly sung as the national anthem. The other stanzas are less well-known and contain references to the British enemy that were considered less appropriate as time went on. Some of these stanzas contained phrases that were perceived as anti-British and have been largely omitted from modern renditions.

6. Historical Preservation: Key's home in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., has been preserved as the Francis Scott Key House, and it's open to the public. It serves as a museum dedicated to his life and the history of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

7. Monument: A prominent monument dedicated to Francis Scott Key stands in Baltimore, Maryland, not far from Fort McHenry. It's known as the Francis Scott Key Monument and is a popular tourist attraction.

8. Legacy: Francis Scott Key's legacy lives on through the national anthem and his contributions to American history. He is remembered for capturing the spirit of American resilience and patriotism during a crucial moment in the nation's history.

"The Star-Spangled Banner" remains a symbol of American pride and patriotism and is sung at various official events, especially during sporting events and ceremonies, to celebrate the United States' enduring spirit.