John Waters releases “Multiple Maniacs,” in 1970, becoming the national leader in the production of “transgressive” cheap cult films featuring shock value and black humor.
John Waters releases “Multiple Maniacs” Read More »
Popular early 20th century author Sophie Kerr creates the largest U.S. literary prize for an undergraduate at Washington College in 1965.
Sophie Kerr Literary Prize created Read More »
Thurgood Marshall, Maryland’s most famous lawyer, wins Brown vs. Board of Education case, desegregating public schools. Appointed by President Lyndon Johnson as the first African American to the Supreme Court in 1976, Marshall serves 24 years.
Thurgood Marshall wins Brown vs. Board of Education case in 1954 Read More »
Alex Haley publishes a popular book, Roots, in 1967 and, with a TV Miniseries, creates a new national interest in enslavement in America. He launches the book from the Annapolis wharf where his ancestor Kunta Kinte was brought in chains 200 years ago.
Alex Haley finds his roots Read More »
“Columbia, Maryland, is the best place to raise a family in the country.” Jim Rouse creates a carefully planned city for “joyous living” in 1967.
Following civil rights demonstrations in 1963, Gloria Richardson becomes the SNCC negotiator with US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. They sign the Treaty of Cambridge, ending segregation in schools and housing which is ignored by locals.
Gloria Richardson negotiates end of Civil Rights demonstrations in Cambridge Read More »
Rachel Carson publishes a controversial environmental book in 1962 that leads to the banning of DDT and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Rachel Carson publishes “Silent Spring” Read More »
Fashion designer Claire McCardell, featured on the cover of Time in 1955, is the successful creator everyday easy-to-wear clothing for women.
Claire McCardell, fashion designer of modern women’s sportwear Read More »
Seven Morgan State College students stage the first sit-in at Read’s Drugstore in Baltimore in 1955. It ends peacefully and occurs 5 years prior to more famous Greensboro, NC sit-in.
Morgan State students stage first sit-in Read More »
When the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is built in 1952, it is the longest continuous steel span in the country.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge, longest single span bridge over water Read More »
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.
© 2023 MARYLAND 400
