What is the name of the national anthem?

Why This Matters

The national anthem of the United States is called "The Star-Spangled Banner." It is played at government events, sports games, school assemblies, and many other occasions. When the anthem plays, Americans typically stand, face the flag, and place their right hand over their heart. Knowing the name of the anthem is something every citizen is expected to know.

The song was written by Francis Scott Key in September 1814, during the War of 1812. Key was watching the British navy bombard Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, through the night. When dawn came, he saw that the American flag was still flying over the fort, meaning the defenders had not surrendered. Inspired by this sight, he wrote a poem called "Defence of Fort M'Henry," which was later set to music. The "star-spangled banner" in the title refers to the American flag itself, "star-spangled" means decorated with stars, and "banner" means flag.

Although the song was popular for many years, it did not officially become the national anthem until 1931, when Congress passed a law making it so. The song has four verses, but usually only the first verse is sung at public events. Some people find the song difficult to sing because it covers a wide range of musical notes, but its message of resilience and pride in the flag makes it a fitting anthem for the nation.

Key Facts

• The national anthem is "The Star-Spangled Banner"
• It was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814 during the War of 1812
• The song describes the American flag surviving a British attack on Fort McHenry
• It officially became the national anthem in 1931
• "Star-Spangled Banner" means "flag decorated with stars"

Common Mistakes

• Saying "America the Beautiful", this is a well-known patriotic song but not the national anthem
• Saying "God Bless America", also a popular song, but not the official anthem
• Mispronouncing or forgetting the full title, practice saying "The Star-Spangled Banner" clearly

Study Tip

Break the name into parts: "Star-Spangled" means covered with stars, and "Banner" means flag. So the name literally means "the flag covered with stars", which is the American flag. If you picture the flag with its 50 stars and call it the "Star-Spangled Banner," the name will make sense and be easier to remember.