Which song became the official U.S. national anthem in 1931, making it part of America250’s national heritage?

The Star-Spangled Banner became the official U.S. national anthem in 1931, making it part of America250’s national heritage.

Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics in 1814 after seeing the American flag flying over Fort McHenry following a British bombardment during the War of 1812. He called his poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” and it was later set to the tune of a British drinking song.

The song gained popularity over the following century but was not immediately the official anthem. President Herbert Hoover signed the legislation that made it the national anthem on March 3, 1931.

The anthem is distinct from “America the Beautiful,” which is a patriotic song but not the official national anthem. Its connection to the War of 1812 also places it several decades after the Revolutionary founding commemorated by America250.