Salute Our National Anthem on its Bicentennial

Two hundred years ago during the night of Sept. 13^th - 14^th, the British bombardment of Ft. McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write “Star Spangled Banner,” which became our National anthem.

The song became popular and, over time, it was played at increasingly large-scale public ceremonies, such as parades and sporting events. President Wilson, in 1916, had it played at military ceremonies, causing it to become the unofficial National Anthem. In 1931, Congress passed legislation to officially make it the National Anthem.

The Smithsonian is home to the original flag that inspired the National Anthem. For more information on the National Anthem, the war and the flag, visit http://amhistory.si.edu/starspangledbanner/