Premieres Thursday, October 29 at 8pm

Through one remarkable building flows the extraordinary story of American democracy. 

For 250 years, the Maryland State House has stood at the center of the nation’s journey. As the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use—and the only one to ever serve as the capital of the United States—it remains a living monument to American history. 

A Nation Begins: The Maryland State House at 250 is a compelling exploration of Annapolis’s iconic crown jewel. Using vivid present-day footage, the documentary traces the State House’s storied past through its timeless architecture, rare artifacts, and monumental artwork, revealing how revolutionaries, visionaries, and everyday Marylanders shaped our national character. From George Washington’s quiet resignation of his military command to the fractures of the Civil War, through the civil rights movement and the ongoing challenge of governing a diverse democracy, this sweeping film reveals how a single building became the backdrop for America’s greatest triumphs, deepest contradictions, and our enduring pursuit of a more perfect union. 

A Nation Begins: The Maryland State House at 250 is sponsored by Debbie Driesman and Frank Islam.