Georgetown College (later University) arranges the sale of 272 enslaved people, the largest known sale, from its southern Maryland plantations to two Louisiana buyers who agree to pay $115,000. It is among the largest and best documented sale of enslaved individuals in U.S. history. Georgetown University, founded in 1789, is the oldest Catholic institution of higher learning in America. Originally a part of Maryland, the town of Georgetown formally becomes a part of DC in 1871. The Jesuits hold 12,000 acres on five tobacco plantations that go back to 1711. The sale, after decades of controversy, is designed to pay for Jesuit education but instead pays for the University’s outstanding debts. The story again comes to public attention during university renovations in 2015. Descendants of the enslaved are brought together and reparations are initiated. Among other programs, the University is raising money for a Truth and Reconciliation Foundation.
The Battle of Baltimore saves the young country; Francis Scott Key writes “Star Spangled Banner”
Ft. McHenry endures bombardment and saves Baltimore from being burned. The “Star Spangled Banner” is written on September 14, 1814
