Cities In Maryland - Quick Facts, History & Geography
Maryland Quick Facts
Nicknamed the "Old Line State" from General George Washington for those who served in the many Revolutionary War battles. There are a total of 23 counties and 157 municipalities in Maryland. The capital city of Maryland is Annapolis, which is also known for its historic significance and charming waterfront. Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland, with a population of 602,274 people. Maryland is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Johns Hopkins University, the United States Naval Academy and the University of Maryland. Maryland is famous for its blue crabs and crabbing is a popular recreational activity for residents and visitors alike. Maryland is the 42nd largest state, with 12,406 square miles and is made up of 21.75% water. The United States Naval Academy is located in Annapolis. Famous people born in Maryland include Babe Ruth, Michael Phelps, Anna Faris, Thurgood Marshall, David Hasselhoff, Lance Reddick and Parker Posey.
The History of Maryland
Maryland was one of the original 13 colonies established by English settlers in the early 17th century. The colony was established as a haven for English Catholics seeking religious freedom. The Maryland Toleration Act, passed in 1649, granted religious freedom to all Christians, making it one of the earliest examples of religious tolerance in colonial America. Like many other Southern colonies, Maryland's economy relied heavily on tobacco cultivation and trade. Large plantations worked by enslaved laborers played a significant role in the colony's economy. In 1776, the state's delegates signed the Declaration of Independence and Maryland's soldiers and militia fought valiantly in key battles, including the Battle of Brooklyn and the Battle of Trenton. During the Civil War, Maryland's position as a border state meant that it faced significant challenges and internal divisions. The state's strategic location made it important for both the Union and the Confederacy. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Maryland experienced industrial growth and urbanization, particularly in Baltimore, which became a major port and industrial center. In the 20th century, Maryland continued to evolve as a diverse and dynamic state, embracing its rich history while adapting to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
The Geography of Maryland
Maryland's eastern border is defined by the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States. Across the Chesapeake Bay, the Eastern Shore of Maryland offers a more rural and laid-back atmosphere. The central part of Maryland is part of the Piedmont Plateau, a hilly region that stretches from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The westernmost part of Maryland is part of the Appalachian Mountain range. Maryland is bordered by the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., to the south, and the city of Baltimore, one of the country's major ports and economic hubs, to the north. The Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area is a densely populated and urbanized region. In addition to the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and waterways, such as the Patapsco River, Potomac River, and Susquehanna River.
Maryland Relocation Guide
The state of Maryland might be small, but it brings a lot to the table in terms of possibility and potential. Those folks who come to Maryland have found that the cities of Baltimore and Annapolis are the major centers, but there are lots of coastal cities on the Maryland map, as well. Ocean City has proven to be a popular place for tourists, as it features great hotels, restaurants, and a lot of attractions, too. In Baltimore, major sports are a really big deal, with the professional sports franchises drawing a lot of support. Additionally, Maryland all but claims the amenities of Washington, D.C., and they should, considering the proximity.
A nice draw for Maryland that brings people to the state is its weather. Lots of people choose to relocate to Maryland because they enjoy the full four seasons that you enjoy on the middle of the eastern seaboard. Additionally, Maryland enjoys a solid position on the map, close enough to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, while also being a short drive down to Virginia and the Carolinas. Because of its proximity to D.C., the economy has been pretty sound in Maryland and there are lots of educational opportunities in terms of both high school and college in the area.
Cities in Maryland have a crime rate that is almost identical to the national average. Large cities like Baltimore have higher crime rates, which is standard for cities of that size. There are enough smaller, coastal cities with low crime to give anyone enough options.
