Political Quotes

“I wish to recognize the bicentennial of our national anthem, the Star Spangled Banner, and of Defenders Day. I thank Senator Cardin, my partner in the Senate, for submitting a resolution to commemorate this occasion. Defenders Day, which inspired our national anthem, is momentous in the history of our Nation, the State of Maryland, and the City of Baltimore. Two hundred years ago, the brave City of Baltimore led the way in the War of 1812 defending our Nation and holding the American line. Our troops stopped the British advance and claimed a much-needed victory for Baltimore and for the Nation. Some call the War of 1812 the forgotten war. I believe it was the war that forged our Nation. As the United States entered the war, it was a loose collection of States. As we emerged from it, we were on the path to becoming a true Nation. It was also during this war at the Battle of Baltimore that we gained an enduring icon of national patriotism in our National anthem, inspired by the naval battle at Fort McHenry. Fort McHenry is now a revered National monument and a historic shrine. The Battle of Baltimore was a rousing victory in the dark days following the British attack on our Capitol. The British had just burned Washington, setting our Capitol and White House ablaze, and hurting America's morale.…”