The National Anthem: A Former Drinking Song?

In the history of mankind, songs of importance for one country often are based off a tune from a popular song.  One great example is the National Anthem of the United States.  Originally, this anthem was a tune for an English society.  The name of this society was the "Anacreontic Society."  The link below is for the song of this Society, used mainly for the action of drinking together as a group.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydAIdVKv84g


The lyrics for this song are
"To Anacreon in Heav'n, where he sat in full glee,
A few sons of harmony sent in a petition
That he their Inspirer and patron would be;
When this answer arriv'd from the Jolly Old Grecian "Voice, fiddle and flute, "no longer be mute,
"I'll lend you my name and inspire you to boot,
"And, besides, I'll instruct you, like me, to intwine
"The Myrtle of Venus with Bacchus's Vine."

(...)

Ye Sons of Anacreon, then join hand in hand;
Preserve unanimity, friendship and love!
'Tis yours to support what's so happily plann'd;
You've the sanction of Gods and the fiat of Jove. While thus we agree Our toast let it be:
"May our club flourish happy, united and free!
"And long may the sons of Anacreon intwine
"The Myrtle of Venus with Bacchus's Vine."


Enjoy this intriguing fact about the song crucial to our American identity.  History is a mystery that can change our mind, only if we allow it.