Final answer:
The claim that a standardized version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was published in 1917 is true; it was part of efforts to promote national unity before becoming the official national anthem in 1931.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a standardized version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" was published in 1917 is true. The song's lyrics originated from a poem written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, titled "In Defense of Fort McHenry". This poem was inspired by the sight of the United States flag still flying over Fort McHenry after the British had bombarded Baltimore during the War of 1812. Over time, the poem was set to the tune of a popular British song and amassed widespread popularity. Eventually, in 1917, the U.S. Bureau of Education commissioned a standardized version as part of efforts to promote a national standard, years before the song was officially adopted as the national anthem in 1931. The Star-Spangled Banner remains a pivotal symbol of American nationalism and history.