History of Baltimore, MD

Baltimore is the largest and best-known city in the state of Maryland. Referred to as Baltimore City to distinguish it from surrounding Baltimore County, its nicknames include "Charm City" and "B-More."

Founding and Early Years

Baltimore was founded in 1729 after two decades functioning as a port for the tobacco trade. It was named after the Lord Baltimore, Cecilius Calvert (1605 to 1675), the first proprietary governor of the Maryland colony. For a brief period during the American Revolution---in 1777---Baltimore was the capital of the United States.

Growth

Baltimore grew considerably after the War of 1812 (1812 to 1815). Shipbuilding and transportation were some of the industries that flourished in the city. It had actually been prosperous enough to being the seat of Baltimore County since the mid-18th century.

Depression and Decline

However, Baltimore suffered a number of calamities between the late 19th and mid-20th centuries. The most notable of them was the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904, which destroyed much of its business district. The Great Depression of the 1930s and the subsequent "suburban flight" only dealt more blows to Baltimore's economy.

Redevelopment

Starting from the 1970s, several developments were launched to revitalize Baltimore. The most notable projects include the National Aquarium in Baltimore and the Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Today

Baltimore is now one of the United States' prominent ports, supported by extensive railways and trucking lines. It is also known for its affection for crab cuisine and its cultural impact with the Baltimore-based HBO series, "The Wire."

References

• Baltimore History
• Scharf, J. Thomas. "History of Maryland from the Earliest Period to the Present Day"