Simplify the following text for a Grade 11 native English-speaking person.
Original: On 29 May 1854 The State of Maryland declared its independence , naming itself Maryland in Liberia ( it was also known as the Republic of Maryland ) , with its capital at Harper , Liberia .
Simplified: On 29 May 1854 The State of Maryland declared its independence , naming itself Maryland in Liberia ( it was also known as the Republic of Maryland ) , with its capital at Harper .