Annapolis

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Seaport and capital of Maryland, near the mouth of the River Severn on Chesapeake Bay; seat of Anne Arundel County; population (2000 est) 35,800. Annapolis, whose industries include radar equipment, is a commercial centre for the surrounding agricultural area, and is a popular recreational and tourist area lying only 40 km/25 mi from both Washington and Baltimore.

History
Founded in 1694 as the capital of colonial Maryland, Annapolis was initially called St Mary's City. It was renamed in honour of Princess (later Queen) Anne in 1697. It was incorporated as a town in 1708, and as a city in 1796. The State House (built 1772–80) is the oldest US state capitol in continuous legislative use. It was in session here that Congress received George Washington's resignation as commander-in-chief in December 1793, and ratified the peace treaty of the American Revolution.

The George Cross was awarded by King George VI and originally appeared in a small blue canton. The present design dates from 1964 when the islands gained independence. Effective date: 21 September 1964. >>