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Maryland was once a center of the slave trade: Maryland was one of the thirteen colonies that allowed slavery, and by the mid-18th century, it had become a major center of the domestic slave trade. Maryland slave traders sold enslaved people to plantation owners in other southern colonies and to the Caribbean.
About Calvert County
Calvert County Timeline
Calvert County, Maryland has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Piscataway and Yaocomaco peoples. The arrival of European settlers in the 17th century marked a significant change for the region. In 1654, the county was established and named after the Calvert family, who were influential in the establishment of the Maryland colony.
During the colonial period, Calvert County played an important role in Maryland's tobacco industry. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for tobacco cultivation, which became the backbone of the local economy. Numerous plantations were established, and many African slaves were brought to the area to work on these plantations.
In the 19th century, Calvert County saw significant changes with the decline of tobacco as the main crop. The county diversified its economy, focusing on agriculture, fishing, and oyster harvesting. The Chesapeake Bay became a vital resource, providing employment opportunities for many residents.
In the 20th century, Calvert County experienced further changes and growth. The construction of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the expansion of transportation networks made the county more accessible to tourists and businesses. The establishment of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant in the 1970s also brought new economic opportunities.
Today, Calvert County is a suburban area that is known for its historical sites, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. It continues to attract visitors who are interested in exploring its history, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the charm of a small-town atmosphere.
During the colonial period, Calvert County played an important role in Maryland's tobacco industry. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for tobacco cultivation, which became the backbone of the local economy. Numerous plantations were established, and many African slaves were brought to the area to work on these plantations.
In the 19th century, Calvert County saw significant changes with the decline of tobacco as the main crop. The county diversified its economy, focusing on agriculture, fishing, and oyster harvesting. The Chesapeake Bay became a vital resource, providing employment opportunities for many residents.
In the 20th century, Calvert County experienced further changes and growth. The construction of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the expansion of transportation networks made the county more accessible to tourists and businesses. The establishment of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant in the 1970s also brought new economic opportunities.
Today, Calvert County is a suburban area that is known for its historical sites, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. It continues to attract visitors who are interested in exploring its history, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the charm of a small-town atmosphere.
Calvert County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Calvert County, Maryland.
- 1634: Calvert County is established as one of the original counties in the Province of Maryland.
- 1650s: English settlements begin to form in Calvert County.
- 1684: Calvert County becomes an official county in the Maryland colony.
- 1706: The first courthouse in Calvert County is built in the town of Prince Frederick.
- 1774: Calvert County residents participate in protests and demonstrations leading up to the American Revolutionary War.
- 1789: The town of Prince Frederick is officially incorporated.
- 1812: Calvert County plays a significant role in the War of 1812, with British forces attacking the area.
- 1861: Calvert County remains loyal to the Union during the American Civil War despite being located in a Southern state.
- 1904: The Chesapeake Beach Railway opens, bringing tourism and economic growth to Calvert County.
- 1950s: The establishment of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant brings additional economic development to the county.