Why did Mary Pickersgill make the flag?

Mary Pickersgill made the flag to commemorate the defense of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. Commissioned by the U.S. Army, she created the large 30-by-42-foot flag to fly over the fort as a symbol of resilience and patriotism. The flag gained historical significance after Francis Scott Key witnessed it during the British bombardment, inspiring him to write "The Star-Spangled Banner." This event solidified the flag's place in American history as a symbol of national pride.