Fought on September 12, 1814, the Battle of North Point was a key part of Baltimore's successful defense. On this spot, volunteer militia stood against hardened British veterans. The battle here, along with the defense of Fort McHenry, restored a sense of pride among the American defenders. Francis Scott Key penned the "Star Spangled Banner" after witnessing the "bombs bursting in air." American victories in Baltimore and at Plattsburgh in upstate New York helped save the American republic. The battle reached its apex with some British troops attacking the main American line while others attempted to move around the American left flank.