

William Beanes, a popular physician, who was captured in his home and accused of aiding in the arrest of British soldiers. His assignment was to try and secure the release of his friend, Dr. Two years after the War of 1812 broke out (a war that began in part because Britain was supporting Indian tribes in order to prevent American expansion), Francis was sent on a diplomatic mission approved by President James Madison. He also enjoyed writing poetry in his spare time. 1 In the end, he chose to continue in law but serve as a lay leader in his church. Francis was a committed Christian, and at one point, he seriously considering entering ministry full-time. He studied law and served as the district attorney for the District of Columbia. Francis Scott Key was the son of an army officer who served with distinction in the Revolutionary War.
