The Battle of Baltimore changed the direction of the War of 1812

Following the destruction of government structures in Washington, D.C. in August 1814, it seemed that Baltimore would be the British's next target. Baltimore was a thriving port city that the British could defend with a consistent supply of soldiers if they managed to take it. The city might have developed into a significant British military base from which to attack other American cities like Philadelphia and New York.

The British started testing the internal fortifications of Baltimore. The American line was protected by 100 artillery and more than 10,000 regular soldiers. The defense system was significantly more powerful than the British had anticipated. The British naval forces were successfully halted by the American defenders at Fort McHenry, although some ships were still able to supply artillery support. Sir Robert Ross, the British general who oversaw the destruction in Washington, boldly claimed that he would compel the city to submit and that he would relocate to Baltimore for the winter.

Over Fort McHenry, on September 14, the American flag was flown in the morning. It took the place of the battle-damaged storm flag. Every morning, as was the case on September 14, the enormous flag is used for the revelation.