Baltimore is the largest independent city in the United States and the largest city and cultural center of the US state of Maryland. The city is located in central Maryland along the tidal portion of the Patapsco River, an arm of the Chesapeake Bay. Founded in 1729, Baltimore is the largest U.S. seaport in the Mid-Atlantic and is situated closer to major Midwestern markets than any other major seaport on the East Coast.
The Town of Baltimore was founded on July 30, 1729, and is named after Lord Baltimore (Cecilius Calvert), who was the first Proprietary Governor of the Province of Maryland. Baltimore grew swiftly in the 18th century as a granary for sugar-producing colonies in the Caribbean. The profit from sugar encouraged the cultivation of cane and the importation of food.
Baltimore was important to the American Revolution. The Second Continental Congress met in Baltimore during December of 1776 through February 1777, so Baltimore was the capitol of the United States during that time! During the Battle of Baltimore, Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the Star Spangled Banner, which is now the National Anthem. The Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) railroad and National Road (Now US 40) helped the city to grow and become a major trade city. Even when the fire of 1904 destroyed more than 1,500 buildings in less than two days, Baltimore continued to prosper.
In spite of the recent decline in population, Baltimore is still an amazing city. Baltimore is home of the Ravens and the Orioles. The Inner Harbor offers beautiful views of the city. It is home to the Baltimore National Aquarium, the Baltimore World Trade Center, and the USS Constellation. The Hippodrome is a major performing-arts center, able to seat upwards of 3000 people. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is also known throughout the world. In addition to all of these attractions, Baltimore has many historic neighborhoods to experience.
