2008 civics test · Question 98 · Symbols
What is the name of the national anthem?
Official answer
- The Star-Spangled Banner
What this means
The national anthem is The Star-Spangled Banner.
Did you know? Francis Scott Key wrote the words in 1814 after witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. The song did not become the official national anthem until 1931.
You will not be asked to sing it or to recite the lyrics. The officer is listening only for the title.
Answer: The Star-Spangled Banner.
Why this is on the test
You only need the title, not the words. Applicants sometimes worry they will be asked to sing it.
How this question is asked
On the 2008 civics test, the officer asks up to 10 of the 100 questions out loud and you pass by answering 6 correctly. You answer in your own words. There is no multiple choice and nothing to write down for the civics portion.
This question also appears on the 2025 civics test , as question 123.
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