The Star-Spangled Banner Becomes National Anthem

March 3, 1931 marks the official designation of the iconic song as the United States national anthem.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:15am

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On this day in 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a Congressional act officially naming 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem of the United States. The song was originally written as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814, inspired by the American flag flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore following a victory over the British in the War of 1812.

Why it matters

The designation of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem was an important symbolic moment in American history, cementing the iconic song's place in the nation's cultural identity. This decision came as the United States approached its 250th anniversary, making it a significant milestone in the country's patriotic traditions.

The details

President Herbert Hoover signed the Congressional act on March 3, 1931, officially naming 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem. The song was originally written as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814, inspired by the American flag flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore following a victory over the British in the War of 1812.

  • On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed the Congressional act designating 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem.
  • The song was written as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814, inspired by the American flag flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore following a victory over the British in the War of 1812.

The players

Herbert Hoover

The 31st President of the United States, who signed the Congressional act officially naming 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem in 1931.

Francis Scott Key

The author who wrote the poem that became 'The Star-Spangled Banner' in 1814, inspired by the American flag flying over Fort McHenry in Baltimore following a victory over the British in the War of 1812.

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The takeaway

The official designation of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as the national anthem was a significant moment in American history, cementing the iconic song's place in the nation's cultural identity as the country approached its 250th anniversary.