Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Maryland and create a timeline of events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
1632: Maryland was founded as a proprietary colony by Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore, with the intention of establishing a haven for English Catholics in the New World.
1788: Maryland became the seventh state to ratify the United States Constitution, supporting the formation of the federal government and the principles outlined in the Constitution.
1814: During the War of 1812, British forces invaded and burned Washington, D.C., including the White House and the Capitol. The British attack prompted fear and preparation in nearby Baltimore, leading to the defense of Fort McHenry and the inspiration for Francis Scott Key's "Star-Spangled Banner."
1861: The American Civil War erupted, and Maryland's position as a border state led to significant tensions between Union and Confederate sympathizers. The Baltimore Riot of 1861 marked a violent clash between pro-Union troops and Confederate sympathizers, highlighting Maryland's divided loyalties during the conflict.
1904: The Great Baltimore Fire swept through the city, destroying over 1,500 buildings and leaving tens of thousands homeless. The disaster prompted extensive rebuilding efforts and influenced modern fire safety practices.
1954: The landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education challenged racial segregation in public schools, with a key case originating from Prince George's County, Maryland. The decision helped pave the way for desegregation efforts nationwide.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a 4-6 cell timeline of important events in Maryland’s history.
Student Instructions