Maryland is a place that holds a long history and tradition among the states that laid the foundation for the United States.

The story of this place cannot simply be described as "a small state near Washington D.C.".

In 1632, Sir George Calvert of England, also known as Lord Baltimore, established Maryland as a refuge for Catholics.

At that time, Catholics were persecuted in England, and Maryland was a new land of hope for them.

Thus, the nickname "Free State" is not just a simple descriptor, but comes from the roots of that spirit of freedom.

Maryland is also known by another name, "America in Miniature".

This is because within the state, mountains, plains, coasts, rivers, and cities all coexist.

To the west lies the Appalachian Mountains, and to the east is the Chesapeake Bay, showcasing a variety of terrains and cultures like a miniature version of America.

In Baltimore, the first railroad in America, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad (B&O Railroad), started right here.

In the early 19th century, Maryland was at the center of social conflicts over the abolition of slavery.

The birth of the national anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner) also took place on this land.

During the War of 1812, the scene of the flag at Fort McHenry in Baltimore not being lowered despite the bombardment by British forces inspired Francis Scott Key to write the lyrics of the national anthem.

For the people of Maryland, the star and stripes flag is not just a symbol but a source of pride itself.

The traditions of Maryland are not just found in history books.

In the small coastal town of Annapolis, 18th-century brick buildings still stand, and the streets are adorned with antique lanterns and quiet docks, creating an atmosphere as if time has stopped.

This place is also home to the United States Naval Academy, showcasing America's symbolic roots as a maritime nation.

On the other hand, in the Chesapeake Bay on the East Coast, the crab-catching culture that has continued for centuries is still alive.

Catching blue crabs and steaming them with Old Bay seasoning is a daily tradition and identity for the people of Maryland.

Their lives, intertwined with the smell of the sea, transcend mere livelihood and represent a culture passed down through generations.

The charm of Maryland lies in the feeling that the past and present of the nation coexist and breathe together.