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Maryland was founded as a Catholic colony: Maryland was founded by the English nobleman George Calvert, also known as Lord Baltimore, in 1632. He envisioned Maryland as a haven for Catholics who faced persecution in England at the time. The colony's first settlement, St. Mary's City, was established in 1634.
About Anne Arundel County
Anne Arundel County Timeline
Anne Arundel County, located in the state of Maryland, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. The county was named after Anne Arundell, the wife of Cecilius Calvert, the Second Lord Baltimore, who founded the Maryland colony. In the early 17th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region, primarily from England, seeking new opportunities and religious freedom. Over time, the area developed into a prosperous agricultural region, with farming and tobacco cultivation being the mainstays of the local economy.
During the American Revolutionary War, Anne Arundel County played a significant role in the fight for independence. It was here that the Maryland Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Continental Congress, passed the "Association of Freemen" in 1774, pledging support for the colonies' cause. The county also served as the temporary capital of the United States from November 1783 to August 1784 when Congress met in Annapolis.
In the 19th century, the industrial revolution brought change to Anne Arundel County, as the focus shifted from agriculture to manufacturing and industry. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad connected the county to Baltimore and other major cities, boosting trade and commerce. The naval industry also became crucial, with the establishment of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis in 1845, making the county a significant naval center.
In the 20th century, Anne Arundel County experienced rapid suburbanization and urbanization, driven by its proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The population boomed, and new industries, such as technology and healthcare, emerged. Today, Anne Arundel County is a vibrant and diverse community, known for its historic charm, cultural heritage, and stunning waterfront landscapes. From its beginnings as an agricultural region to its present-day urbanized status, the county continues to evolve while honoring its deep-rooted history.
During the American Revolutionary War, Anne Arundel County played a significant role in the fight for independence. It was here that the Maryland Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Continental Congress, passed the "Association of Freemen" in 1774, pledging support for the colonies' cause. The county also served as the temporary capital of the United States from November 1783 to August 1784 when Congress met in Annapolis.
In the 19th century, the industrial revolution brought change to Anne Arundel County, as the focus shifted from agriculture to manufacturing and industry. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad connected the county to Baltimore and other major cities, boosting trade and commerce. The naval industry also became crucial, with the establishment of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis in 1845, making the county a significant naval center.
In the 20th century, Anne Arundel County experienced rapid suburbanization and urbanization, driven by its proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The population boomed, and new industries, such as technology and healthcare, emerged. Today, Anne Arundel County is a vibrant and diverse community, known for its historic charm, cultural heritage, and stunning waterfront landscapes. From its beginnings as an agricultural region to its present-day urbanized status, the county continues to evolve while honoring its deep-rooted history.
Anne Arundel County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
- 1600s: Colonial settlers arrive in the area that would become Anne Arundel County.
- 1650: The area is officially established as Anne Arundel County, named after Lady Anne Arundell, the wife of Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore.
- 1695: The county seat is established in Annapolis, which becomes the capital of Maryland.
- 1708: The first courthouse is built in Annapolis.
- 1774: The Annapolis Convention is held, where Maryland delegates discuss colonial grievances and plan responses to British rule.
- 1783: The Treaty of Paris is signed, officially ending the American Revolutionary War.
- 1809: St. John's College is founded in Annapolis.
- 1845: The Naval Academy is established in Annapolis.
- 1861: The Civil War begins, and Annapolis becomes an important Union naval base.
- 1900s: Anne Arundel County experiences significant growth, especially in the areas of education and transportation.
- 1998: The expansion of Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is completed.
- Present: Anne Arundel County continues to thrive as a vibrant hub of education, government, and culture in Maryland.