Maryland State Guide

General Facts

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Timeline

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Landmark Postcard

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Fun Facts

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Essential Questions for Maryland

1. What are some significant events in the history of Maryland?
2. What are some facts and features that make Maryland unique?
3. What are some interesting places in Maryland that people would want to visit?

All About Maryland

Date of Statehood: April 28, 1788

State Motto: "Strong deeds, gentle words."

State Nickname: Old Line State

State Bird: Baltimore Oriole

State Tree: White Oak

State Flower: Black-Eyed Susan

Tourist Attractions: Inner Harbor, Assateague Island National Seashore, Antietam National Battlefield, Ocean City, Annapolis

Famous Citizens of Maryland: Thurgood Marshall, Edgar Allan Poe, Frederick Douglass, Billie Holiday, John Waters

Capital City: Annapolis

Major Cities: Baltimore, Columbia, Germantown, Silver Spring, Waldorf

Brief History of Maryland

Maryland's journey to statehood began with its founding charter in 1632 by King Charles I of England, granting Lord Baltimore proprietorship over a territory intended as a haven for English Catholics seeking religious freedom. Throughout the colonial era, Maryland developed a unique identity marked by religious tolerance and self-governance, distinct from its neighbors.

During the American Revolution, Maryland played a significant role in the quest for independence. It contributed troops to the Continental Army and hosted the 1783 Annapolis Convention, where delegates from several states convened to address issues under the Articles of Confederation. Maryland's ratification of the United States Constitution on April 28, 1788, solidified its place as the seventh state to join the Union.

Since achieving statehood, Maryland has thrived as a diverse and dynamic state. Its cities like Baltimore have served as crucial centers of trade and immigration, contributing to its economic and cultural richness. Maryland's history is also marked by its agricultural heritage and its pivotal role in American conflicts such as the Civil War, reflecting its enduring spirit of independence and resilience.

Today, Maryland continues to embody the principles of its colonial founders while embracing its role as a vital part of the United States. It remains a testament to the enduring legacy of religious freedom, self-determination, and civic engagement that shaped its path from colony to statehood within the American union.

Students will create a historical timeline, a postcard, a spider map, and a fun facts storyboard showing what they have learned about Maryland. Creating these visuals gives the students the opportunity to show their creativity and their unique view of the state that they have researched. In addition, the combined use of words and illustrations allows students with different learning styles to show what they know in an exciting and eye-catching way.