Sam Smith fought heroically in the American Revolution and was personally close with George Washington. He was one of the most successful businessmen in Baltimore. As a politician, he worked closely with Thomas Jefferson and served for 40 years in Congress, with 18 years in the House and 22 in the Senate.

After the British burned Washington, D.C., in the War of 1812, he rallied the people of Baltimore to defend the city. Under his inspired leadership, Baltimore withstood British attacks from both land and sea. This is the story of how he inspired citizens from all walks of life to work and fight together, and is a tale of extraordinary leadership and heroism--not just of Smith himself, but those he led, too.