Oppression In Francis Scott Key's The Star Spangled Banner

Introduction
Oppression seems to be a loosely emphasized term used by many these days. The definitions of it can almost be defined by anyone. Oppression by definition states, “unjust or cruel exercise of authority or power” and “a sense of being weighed down in body or mind.” (Merriam-Webster) This term does not in-case only specific people. It can be used towards racism, sexism, egalitarianism, etc. There are hundreds of “isms” that exist and which all can be claimed by some as factual. There has been a rash of a particular protest at sporting events lately that have been unjustly quantified as a cause for oppression in racism. Those who partake in this cause have decided to “take a knee” while the national anthem is being played at the sporting
A nation divided will mean the unraveling of itself within itself. Francis Scott Key, the author of The Star Spangled Banner, was a somewhat captive of the British navy on September 13, 1814. Scott watched into the night where the British navy bombarded the fort of the Americans, Fort McHenry, in Baltimore, Maryland. Scott was able to watch the bombardment that night from the British navy to the fort until morning. “The hours passed slowly, but in the clearing smoke of "the dawn's early light" on September 14, he saw the American flag—not the British Union Jack—flying over the fort, announcing an American victory.” (Lineberry 2007) Originally put on paper as poem, Scott had the idea to put it to the theme of a British tune. Soon after, the poem would gain notoriety nation-wide and be published in most newspapers. The Smithsonian’s Director Brent D. Glass stated, "The Star-Spangled Banner is a symbol of American history that ranks with the Statue of Liberty and the Charters of Freedom." (Lineberry 2007) The poem would not be declared America’s national anthem until 1916, and then formalized by Congress in 1931. Standing for the anthem would not take place until many years later. It was suggested in the late 1800’s that Americans should stand when the anthem is played. It was not until the early 1900’s that the idea of standing was more apparent during
Unfortunately, it typically came at a time after certain catastrophes occurred. It should not take dilemmas to bring each other together. It should be a given. This country is not just the “states” of America, but the “United” States of America. This country was founded with the ideals of unity and to be unified. This does not mean that all must be in an agreeance with each other, but that all must find compromise and even ground to walk on with each other. America does have its faults, but so does each individual. The American people must never forget the history or past of this nation, including the good and bad. America’s history is just that – history. All must be proud of the accomplishments this country holds; it must also remember the bad things and times that this country has gone through. Remembering even the bad is essential so that as a united country all learn and as to not repeat the bad past. Being aware of the essential timing of how and when a protest occurs can mean the difference in showing respect for your fellow American versus only caring about what you feel as an