The British forces, having achieved significant successes earlier in the War of 1812, sought to capture Baltimore, a vital American port city, in September of 1814. The British attack commenced with a massive bombardment of Fort McHenry, which defended Baltimore's harbor. During this intense bombardment, Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and amateur poet, was held on a British ship. He had gone to negotiate the release of a captured American and was compelled to witness the assault on Fort McHenry. For hours, Key observed the fierce battle as British warships shelled the fort, resulting in uncertainty about the outcome. When dawn broke, and the flag was still flying over the fort, Key was inspired to write a poem entitled 'Defence of Fort McHenry', capturing the resilience and bravery of the American defenders. This poem was soon set to the tune of a popular song and ultimately became the national anthem of the United States, symbolizing national pride and unity. The failure of the British to capture Baltimore marked a turning point in the War of 1812, bolstering American morale and resistance.