“Meaning of Star Spangled Banner Lyrics Verse 3
* Francis Scott Key describes the British as arrogant and boastful in the lyrics ‘that band who so vauntingly swore’�
* He is venting his anger at the British with the “foul footsteps’ pollution” lyrics inferring that the British poisoned the ground on which they walked�
* But the poison and corruption had been washed away by the blood of the British�
* The Star Spangled Banner lyrics “the hireling ” refers to the British use of Mercenaries (German Hessians) in the American War of Independence�
* The Star Spangled Banner lyrics “…and slave” is a direct reference to the British practice of Impressment (kidnapping American seamen and forcing them into service on British man-of war ships). This was a Important cause of the War of 1812�
* Francis Scott Key then describes the Star Spangled Banner as a symbol of triumph over all adversity”.
the crafty lady in combat boots 