Nature writer Rachel Carson writes a groundbreaking book, “Silent Spring”, in Silver Spring. Praised by scientists but loudly condemned by chemical producers, the book not only leads to the banning of DDT in 1987 but also is an important contributor to the creation of Earth Day and President’s Nixon’s establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Baltimore’s Washington Monument is the first erected in 1815 and dedicated to George Washington. The second, more modest Washington Monument is built by Revolutionary War veterans on South Mountain overlooking Boonsboro in 1826.
Sgt. Major Christian Fleetwood, Civil War hero, almost becomes the first Black commissioned officer in the US Army in 1865. Every white commissioned officer in the 4th US Colored Troops recommends him but the Secretary or War declines.
“Jew Bill” legislation is passed by the Maryland Assembly in 1826, giving Jewish men all the rights of citizenship equal to Christians. Thomas Kennedy of Hagerstown is the tireless sponsor.
We acknowledge the enduring presence of many American Indian tribes who once lived in Maryland and who now, having lost their lands, live in a diaspora. Read more.
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