2 Minute History Maryland

Maryland, founded in 1632 as a proprietary colony, is known for its early commitment to religious freedom and its pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. The state's economy historically thrived on tobacco, reliant on enslaved labor. During the Civil War, Maryland's strategic location made it a Union state with Confederate sympathies. Post-war, industrial growth transformed Baltimore into a major port. Maryland boasts prestigious educational institutions and is committed to preserving the Chesapeake Bay, reflecting its rich cultural and environmental heritage.