A guide to Baltimore’s history

Baltimore is a city with a rich and storied history. Founded in 1729, Baltimore has played a significant role in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War to the present day.

Early history

Baltimore was founded by Charles Calvert, the 5th Baron Baltimore, as a port city for the British colony of Maryland. The city quickly grew into a major commercial center, thanks to its strategic location on the Chesapeake Bay.

During the Revolutionary War, Baltimore was a hotbed of Patriot activity. The city’s citizens helped to supply the Continental Army and Navy, and they also played a role in the Battle of Baltimore, which inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

The 19th century

Baltimore continued to grow and prosper in the 19th century. The city was a major center for manufacturing and transportation. Baltimore was also home to significant cultural institutions, including the Peabody Institute and the Johns Hopkins University.

During the Civil War, Baltimore was a divided city. Many of the city’s residents supported the Union, but there was also a significant Confederate minority. In 1861, a pro-Confederate rioters attacked Union troops passing through Baltimore, sparking the Civil War.

The 20th century

Baltimore continued to grow and change in the 20th century. The city was a major center for the shipbuilding industry during World War I. After the war, the city’s economy diversified, and Baltimore became a major center for healthcare, education, and finance.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Baltimore experienced a period of decline. The city’s population decreased, and its crime rate increased. However, in recent years, Baltimore has experienced a revitalization. The city has invested in its infrastructure and has attracted new businesses and residents.

Historic sites in Baltimore

Baltimore is home to several historic sites that tell the story of the city’s past. Here are a few of the most popular:

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine: This is where Francis Scott Key composed “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the War of 1812.
• Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum: This is the former home of Edgar Allan Poe, one of America’s most famous writers.
• Baltimore Museum of Art: This museum has a collection of over 95,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
• Walters Art Museum: This museum has a collection of over 36,000 works of art from around the world.
• American Visionary Art Museum: This museum is dedicated to self-taught and outsider art.

Other Baltimore history experiences

In addition to visiting historic sites, there are other ways to experience Baltimore’s history. Here are a few ideas:

• Take a history walk: Several companies offer history walks in Baltimore. These walks are a great way to learn about the city’s past and some of its most important historical sites.
• Visit a battleground: Baltimore is home to several battlegrounds from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. These battlegrounds are a great way to learn about the city’s military history and to see where some of the most critical battles in American history were fought.
• Attend a historical reenactment: Several historical reenactments occur in Baltimore throughout the year. These reenactments are a great way to experience the city’s past and learn about the lives of ordinary people during different periods in history.

Tips for visiting Baltimore’s historic sites

Here are a few tips for visiting Baltimore’s historic sites:

• Plan: Many of Baltimore’s historic sites require reservations, so it’s essential to plan.
• Be prepared for crowds: Some of Baltimore’s historic sites, such as Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, are popular tourist destinations. Be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking when you visit Baltimore’s historic sites. Put on some shoes you can walk around in easily so your trip goes smoothly.
• Bring water: It’s essential to stay hydrated when visiting Baltimore’s historic sites, especially during the summer months. Bring water with you so that you can stay refreshed.

Baltimore is a city with a rich and storied history. You can learn about Baltimore’s past and experience the city’s culture by visiting the city’s historic sites and attending historical events.