49. Maryland

Following a similar theme to number fifty on our list, Maryland is a small state in terms of size. Yet, it possesses a very high rate of urban density as well as a very high violent crime rate. Additionally, Baltimore, the state’s largest city is reported to have deserted citizens in food deserts, which are areas with an acute dearth of grocery stores.

Maryland is a great state. It boasts some of the most iconic and significant historical moments in this nation’s history. Baltimore was also once the home of one of America’s greatest writers, and one of my personal favorites: Edgar Allan Poe. The supreme irony of naming one of sport’s most masculine, jock-ish teams after the famed poet’s iconic work earns it some points in my book.

Yet, historical value might prove somewhat of a matter of tertiary importance during an existential crisis. Maryland does also boast some important natural resources that could be crucial during an apocalyptic scenario. The Chesapeake Bay area and relative abundance of fresh water resources places the state a step above Delaware. As does its strategic importance. Annapolis is just one asset of national security value that would likely see more dedicated resources for defense. The state is proximate to America’s capital and hosts a good number of military personnel as well as wealthier individuals with high-level governmental importance.

Yet, Maryland is also home to a potential chemical weapons/agents cache, as well as at least two nuclear power plants. Fort Detrick is but one military base which plays an important role in my new zombie apocalypse book (which I hope to host a cover reveal for soon).

Any possible concealment and beneficial natural resources in the area may be obviated by the meltdown of two nuclear reactors and/or the release of a new black plague in the area. Money, tanks, bunkers, and/or government power may not be able to provide much shelter from such forces.

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Exist and thrive, Grays.We will meet again soon.

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2018. Copyright: William Gray.