United States, Maryland
One of the world's great estuaries, Chesapeake Bay, divides Maryland into two parts. The bay is navigable, and offers a rich habitat for abundant populations of fish and wildlife. The bay and its harbors provide the right environment for migratory waterfowl, and for harvesting crabs, oysters, and clams.
During the War of 1812, Fort McHenry, sentinel of Baltimore's harbor, was bombarded with advanced weapons, including rockets, and on September 13, 1814. Francis Scott Key was so inspired as he watched the attack, that he wrote the "Star-Spangled Banner" in praise of the successful defense of the fort.
The charter that Lord Baltimore received from King Charles I of England specified a name for the new colony. It was to be called Maryland to honor King Charle's wife Queen Henrietta Maria (Queen Mary).
