15 Fascinating Washington DC History Facts

Introduction:

Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a city filled with rich history and fascinating stories. From its beginnings as a swampy land to becoming the powerhouse it is today, Washington DC has left an indelible mark on American history. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about the history of Washington DC that will leave you amazed.

Fact 1: The Founding of Washington DC

Washington DC was founded on July 16, 1790, as the new capital of the United States. The decision to create a new capital city was made to resolve the conflict between northern and southern states regarding the location of the capital. The city was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.

Fact 2: The Design of Washington DC

The layout of Washington DC was designed by French architect Pierre Charles L’Enfant. The city was designed to have wide avenues, grand buildings, and open spaces. L’Enfant’s design included a grand avenue known as the National Mall, which stretches from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial.

Fact 3: The White House

The White House, the official residence of the President of the United States, was completed in 1800. It was designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban and has been home to every President since John Adams. The White House has undergone several renovations and additions over the years but still retains its iconic neoclassical style.

Fact 4: The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument, an iconic obelisk that stands at 555 feet, was built to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States. Construction of the monument began in 1848 but was halted during the Civil War. It was finally completed in 1884 and has become a symbol of American democracy.

Fact 5: The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial, a tribute to President Abraham Lincoln, was dedicated in 1922. The memorial features a larger-than-life statue of Abraham Lincoln sitting in contemplation. The memorial has been the site of many historic events, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963.

Fact 6: The Capitol Building

The Capitol Building, home to the United States Congress, was completed in 1800. The iconic dome of the Capitol Building is one of the most recognizable symbols of Washington DC. The building has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate the growing Congress.

Fact 7: Cherry Blossoms

Every spring, Washington DC is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom. The cherry blossom trees were a gift from the Mayor of Tokyo in 1912 as a symbol of friendship between the United States and Japan. The National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the blooming of the cherry blossoms and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Fact 8: The National Archives

The National Archives Building houses the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. These documents, known collectively as the Charters of Freedom, are preserved in the National Archives Building to ensure their safety for future generations. The National Archives also holds millions of other historical records and artifacts.

Fact 9: The Smithsonian Museums

Washington DC is home to the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution, which includes 19 museums and galleries. The Smithsonian museums cover a wide range of topics, including art, history, science, and culture. The most visited museum in the Smithsonian Institution is the National Air and Space Museum.

Fact 10: The Pentagon

The Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, is located just outside of Washington DC in Arlington, Virginia. The building was completed in 1943 and is one of the largest office buildings in the world. The Pentagon serves as the nerve center for the US military.

Fact 11: The Library of Congress

The Library of Congress, founded in 1800, is the largest library in the world by shelf space and number of books. The library houses millions of books, maps, manuscripts, and other materials. The Library of Congress is open to the public and offers a wealth of resources for researchers and scholars.

Fact 12: The Watergate Scandal

The Watergate scandal, which took place in the early 1970s, rocked the nation and led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. The scandal involved a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate complex in Washington DC. The investigation into the scandal revealed a web of corruption and cover-ups at the highest levels of government.

Fact 13: The National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is home to over 2,700 animals from 390 species. The zoo, located in the heart of Washington DC, is dedicated to wildlife conservation and research. The National Zoo is a popular destination for families and animal lovers alike.

Fact 14: The Holocaust Museum

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, located in Washington DC, is dedicated to commemorating the victims of the Holocaust and educating the public about the atrocities of genocide. The museum features exhibits that tell the stories of survivors and honor the memory of those who perished.

Fact 15: The National Cathedral

The Washington National Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is an iconic landmark in Washington DC. The cathedral, completed in 1990, is the sixth-largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It has hosted many state funerals, presidential inaugurations, and other important events.

Conclusion

Washington DC is a city with a rich and diverse history that continues to fascinate and inspire visitors from around the world. From iconic landmarks to historic events, Washington DC has played a significant role in shaping American history. The 15 facts presented in this article are just a glimpse into the fascinating history of this extraordinary city. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the past, Washington DC has something for everyone to explore and discover.