199 years ago today, the British started their invasion of Baltimore (though fighting started on the 13th) with 19 warships and 5,000 ground troops. Over the course of the 4 day battle, between 79 and 99 men died (including the invading General Ross) while between 376 and 384 men were wounded. Baltimore did what Washington DC was unable to do, defend itself from British forces. It proved a turning point in the war, and ultimately helped to end the war on better terms for the US. Here's a great article where you can read a bit more, and make sure to make it down to Fort McHenry itself!
