Maryland Map - Infoplease

History of Maryland

Maryland was founded in the early 1600s by Cecil Calvert, also known as Lord Baltimore. The then territory was established as a refuge for English Catholics. It played a major part in early America, being one of the Thirteen Colonies that fought in the American Revolution.

After gaining statehood in 1788, Maryland became a crucial player during the Civil War. As a border state with mixed loyalties, it was the site of the Battle of Antietam - unquestionably one of the bloodiest days in American history.

Over the long term, Maryland has developed into a major center for industry, education, and technology while retaining its unique historical sites and customs. Today, it continues to be an integral part of the United States, bridging the two sections of the country that are so different.

Geography of Maryland

Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Maryland is a small but geographically diverse Mid-Atlantic state. Covering just over 12,400 square miles, it is one of the smaller states by size. Still, it has a diverse geography that ranges from sandy beaches along the Eastern Shore to the rugged mountains in the west Allegheny Plateau.

To the east, the state is bordered by Delaware, and to the north by Pennsylvania. West Virginia is the border to the west and Virginia to the south. Combined with its unique coastal, mountain, and urban location, chances are you'll always discover something new to love about Maryland.

Major cities in Maryland

• Baltimore: Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city and a cultural powerhouse, with a picturesque waterfront, a thriving arts and music scene, and a storied history. The city is home to such iconic destinations as the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and the Baltimore Museum of Art.
• Annapolis: The state capital, Annapolis, is a picturesque city with a rich maritime tradition. Famed for being home to the United States Naval Academy, the country has a rich historic district and combines colonial architecture with views of the Chesapeake Bay.
• Silver Spring: Home to its own famed arts and entertainment district, Silver Spring is an upscale urban center just outside of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, populated by a highly diverse group of citizens. The city includes a patchwork of office buildings, residential neighborhoods, and local businesses.
• Columbia: Columbia is a planned community that is distinguished by its emphasis on green areas and quality of life. The city is known for its family-friendly environment and pristine parks.
• Frederick: A historic city, classically cultured with a modernized complex. Famous for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, Frederick has a picturesque downtown and a thriving arts community.

People also ask…

What is the capital city of Maryland?

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland. It is also the site of the United States Naval Academy. This historic city is famous for its scenic waterfront and colonial chamfered architecture.

What is Maryland known for?

Maryland has a long and storied history, starting in the early days of America. It is known for the Chesapeake Bay and its rich seafood. The city is an important part of the nation’s politics and industry due to its location next to Washington, D.C.

What is the population of Maryland?

Maryland, by the latest estimates, has a population of around 6,309,380 people. It is a multiracial state with a large number of blacks (African descent), whites (Caucasian), Hispanics (Latinos), and Asian Americans.

What is the climate in Maryland?

Maryland has a humid subtropical climate, the summers are hot and humid and the winters are usually cold. The western regions experience all four seasons equally.

What are some famous attractions in Maryland?

Maryland has many well-known attractions, which means there’s something for everyone. You can find some examples below:

• The National Aquarium at Baltimore: A must-see in Baltimore, this attraction features marine life in breathtaking displays.
• Antietam National Battlefield Sharpsburg: The site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history during the Civil War, Antietam attracts historians and attendees of Civil War reenactments.
• Assateague Island National Seashore: Great for lovers of nature, features beautiful beaches and wild ponies.
• Historic Fort McHenry: A historic military site, which inspired the U.S. national anthem

What languages are spoken in Maryland?

The official and most common language spoken in Maryland is English, but many of the residents also speak Spanish. Also, a number of other languages can be heard, such as Chinese, Korean, German, and French.

What is the cuisine of Maryland?

Completely dominated by its coastal location, Maryland's influences on its cuisine are most apparent through the liberal use of seafood. The state is best known for its blue crabs, which are typically eaten in the form of crab cakes. Other regional specialties include pit beef - a kind of Maryland-style barbecue, oysters, fish dishes and other shellfish, steamed or raw.

What are Maryland’s biggest industries?

Maryland is a rich city with a stable economy, supported by biotech, aerospace, defense and health industries. Its nearness to Washington, D.C., also makes it a center of government services and federal contracting.

Is Maryland a good place to live?

Maryland is positively chock full of high quality of life: Great health care, educational institutions and proximity to Washington, D.C. However, the cost of living, particularly in places like Montgomery County and Howard County, can be quite high.

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