Final answer:
The flag that flew over Fort McHenry and inspired the U.S. national anthem had 15 stars.
Step-by-step explanation:
The flag that flew above Fort McHenry during the British bombardment inspiring Francis Scott Key's composition of what became the U.S. national anthem, the "Star-Spangled Banner," featured 15 stars. This iconic flag, a symbol of American resilience and victory, was immortalized in Key's poem "In Defense of Fort McHenry."
Composed after witnessing the successful defense of Baltimore's Fort McHenry against British forces in 1814, the sight of the flag still waving after the intense attack became a powerful symbol for the nation. Key's poem, later set to the melody of "The Anacreontic Song," was officially adopted as the U.S. national anthem. The Star-Spangled Banner continues to be a patriotic emblem, commemorating the strength and endurance of the United States during a pivotal moment in its history.