Who is credited with writing the National Anthem?

The National Anthem of the United States, "The Star-Spangled Banner," is credited to Francis Scott Key. He wrote the lyrics in 1814 after witnessing the bombing of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. The sight of the American flag still waving after the battle inspired him to write a poem titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry." This poem was later set to the tune of a popular song and became the National Anthem, officially adopted in 1931. Key's words encapsulate the spirit and resilience of the nation during a time of conflict, which is why he is recognized as the author of the anthem. Other figures mentioned, such as Walt Whitman, John Philip Sousa, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, are significant literary and musical contributors in their own rights, but they are not associated with the creation of the National Anthem.