UMD to Battle of Bladensburg

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Ride local trails from the University of Maryland campus to a historic landmark of the Battle of Bladensburg! 

The Battle of Bladensburg was a very significant battle between invading British forces and a rag-tag U.S. militia in the War of 1812. The U.S. lost the battle at Bladensburg, the British went on to burn the Capitol and the White House, and later on during the ensuing war campaign the Star Spangled Banner was written up in the Baltimore harbor.

Major American figures were in the Battle of Bladensburg including, James Madison, Joshua Barney, James Monroe, and Francis Scott Key. While the battle was a loss for the U.S., it was important to highlight the need for a stronger standing military. The battle is commemorated with trails, signage, and tours.
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