The American Revolution is considered as the most important events in the country’s history, as it is considered as the birth of the nation. And the numerous forts that dot the country serve as witness to that struggle for freedom. On of the most significant of these is Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland.

The fort is a star shaped encampment near Chesapeake Bay. It served as a vital part in the defense of the area’s inner harbor from the assault made by the British Navy in the war of 1812. From here on, the fort served a wide variety of other purposes for the then budding nation, until it was finally declared as a national monument in 1925.

The fort is also notable for being the inspiration for the American National Anthem.