Welcome to Maryland, the Old Line State! Maryland is a state full of history, culture, and beauty. Located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, Maryland is bordered by Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington D.C. Maryland is known for its diverse geography, from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Chesapeake Bay in the east. It is also home to some of the most vibrant cities in the country, including Baltimore, Annapolis, and Frederick. Maryland is a great place to explore, with plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, shopping, and dining experiences. In this article, we will explore the geography, things to do, and history of Maryland. So, let's dive in and discover all that the Old Line State has to offer!
Geography
Major Cities
The two largest cities in Maryland are Baltimore and Columbia. Baltimore is the largest city in the state and the 30th largest city in the United States. It is located in the central part of the state on the Patapsco River. Columbia is the second largest city in the state and is located in the center of Howard County. Other major cities in Maryland include Silver Spring, Germantown, Waldorf, and Dundalk.
Climate
Maryland has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. Winters are usually mild with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The state receives an average of 43 inches of rain each year. Snowfall is common in the winter, especially in the western and northern parts of the state.
Landscape
Maryland is a diverse state with a variety of landscapes. The western part of the state is dominated by the Appalachian Mountains. The eastern part of the state is mostly flat and is home to the Chesapeake Bay. The state also has many rivers, streams, and lakes. The largest lake in the state is Deep Creek Lake. The state also has many forests and state parks.
Things to Do
Outdoor Activities
Maryland is a great place for outdoor activities. From the beaches of the Eastern Shore to the mountains of Western Maryland, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventurous hike, Maryland has it all. The state is home to many national parks, including Assateague Island National Seashore, Catoctin Mountain Park, and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. There are also plenty of state parks and forests, such as Patapsco Valley State Park and Susquehanna State Park. For those looking for a more extreme outdoor experience, Maryland also offers whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and kayaking.
Cultural Attractions
Maryland is full of cultural attractions that are sure to please any visitor. The state is home to a variety of museums, such as the Baltimore Museum of Art, the National Aquarium, and the American Visionary Art Museum. There are also many historic sites, such as the Antietam National Battlefield, the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park. For those looking for a more unique experience, Maryland also has a variety of performing arts venues, such as the Hippodrome Theatre, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and the Baltimore Opera.
Shopping and Dining
Maryland is a great place to shop and dine. The state is home to a variety of shopping centers, such as the Inner Harbor, the Harborplace, and the Annapolis Mall. There are also many boutique stores, antique shops, and art galleries. For those looking for a unique dining experience, Maryland has a variety of restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eateries. From seafood restaurants in Baltimore to farm-to-table restaurants in Annapolis, there is something for everyone. Maryland also has a variety of wineries and breweries, so you can enjoy a glass of local wine or beer while you explore the state.
History
Early History
Maryland was first inhabited by Native Americans, with the first Europeans arriving in the 16th century. The first European settlement was St. Mary's City, established in 1634. It was the first capital of the Maryland colony, which was founded by Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore. The colony was established as a refuge for English Catholics, who were persecuted in England. The colony grew quickly and by 1650, it was the second largest in the British colonies.
Statehood
Maryland was one of the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain in 1776. It was the seventh state to ratify the United States Constitution in 1788, becoming the seventh state in the Union. Maryland was an important state during the Civil War, with both Union and Confederate forces occupying the state at different times.
Modern History
Maryland has been a leader in civil rights and progressive legislation. In the 1960s, Maryland was the first state to pass a fair housing law, banning discrimination in housing. In the 1970s, Maryland was the first state to pass a law allowing for collective bargaining by public employees. In recent years, Maryland has been a leader in environmental protection, passing laws to reduce air and water pollution. It has also been a leader in healthcare reform, passing laws to expand access to healthcare.