“No refuge could save the hireling and slave / From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave.”

The third verse, in particular, remains contentious, specifically the following lines: Today, Americans stick to the first verse of Key’s poem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” But the poem contains four stanzas–all of which were taught in schools for many years. Some supporters also point to what they see as the anthem’s racism, citing the song’s rarely-sung third verse and the political career of author Francis Scott Key as evidence. Most notably, Seattle Seahawks players, staff and fans linked arms during the performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” during yesterday’s 9/11 tribute. Yet, sales of Kaepernick’s jersey have skyrocketed and similar demonstrations are sweeping across the National Football League. Opponents call the display inappropriate and even anti-American.

The decision of Colin Kaepernick, quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, to kneel during the national anthem has sparked a media frenzy. “The star spangled banner,” published by Currier & Ives between 18.

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