object record
Weapon · British artillery
Congreve Rocket
Rocket projectile and psychological weapon
British forces used Congreve rockets at Bladensburg and Baltimore, producing conspicuous trails, noise, and uncertain accuracy.
Why this record matters
The object links technology, fear, battlefield myth, and the “rockets’ red glare” remembered through Key’s lyric.
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Evidence behind this record
- The Bombardment of Fort McHenryNational Park Service · battle study
Fort McHenry and Baltimore's harbor defenses.