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Throughout our nation's history, Fort McHenry and the American flag have had many meanings. In 1814, they represented the honor of a young republic fighting to preserve its freedoms. During the Civil War many Americans viewed them as symbols of liberty while others saw them as representing despotism. As Americans confronted totalitarianism and global wars in the 20th century, the role of the fort and symbol of the flag expressed a people's commitment to democracy at home and abroad.
Although no longer a military post, the flag still flies at dawn' early light each morning "o'er the ramparts." Fort McHenry possesses power of place. Seeing the American flag waving over the Fort today, what meanings and impressions come to your mind?
You are making history today by visiting the fort |