Washington, dc

Washington, D.C.

General Information
Name	Washington, dc
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	Capital city
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	38°54 17°N
Map
Population
Total	705,749
Density	per km²
Area
Total	177 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-5
DST	UTC-4

Overview

Washington, D.C., formally the District of Columbia, is the capital city of the United States. It is located on the east bank of the Potomac River, which forms its southwestern and southern border with the state of Virginia, and it shares a land border with the state of Maryland on its remaining sides. The city was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States, and the federal district is named after Columbia, a female personification of the nation.

History

The establishment of Washington, D.C. as the nation's capital was a result of the Residence Act of 1790, which approved the creation of a national capital along the Potomac River. The city was designed by Pierre Charles L'Enfant, a French-born architect and civil engineer, who envisioned a grand city with wide avenues and open spaces.

19th Century

During the 19th century, Washington, D.C. grew in importance as the seat of the federal government. The city was a focal point during the American Civil War, and its population expanded rapidly during this period.

20th Century

In the 20th century, Washington, D.C. became a center for civil rights activism and political movements. The city was the site of the famous March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech.

Government and Politics

Washington, D.C. is unique in that it is not part of any state and is directly overseen by the federal government. The city has a mayor-council form of government, and residents elect a mayor and a council. However, Congress retains the power to overturn local laws.

Federal Representation

Residents of Washington, D.C. do not have voting representation in the United States Congress, although they have a non-voting delegate in the House of Representatives. The issue of D.C. statehood has been a topic of political debate for many years.

Demographics

Washington, D.C. is a diverse city with a population of over 700,000 people. The city has a significant African American population, along with growing Hispanic and Asian American communities. The city is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant neighborhoods.

Economy

The economy of Washington, D.C. is driven by the federal government, which employs a large number of residents. The city is also a hub for international organizations, non-profits, and think tanks. The presence of numerous universities and research institutions contributes to the city's economy.

Education

Washington, D.C. is home to several prestigious universities, including Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University. The city also has a robust public school system and numerous private and charter schools.

Culture and Landmarks

Washington, D.C. is rich in cultural landmarks and institutions. The Smithsonian Institution operates numerous museums and galleries, including the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum. The city is also home to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the National Gallery of Art.

Monuments and Memorials

The city is famous for its national monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. These sites attract millions of visitors each year.

Transportation

Washington, D.C. has a comprehensive public transportation system, including the Washington Metro, buses, and commuter trains. The city is also served by three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

See Also

• List of capitals in the United States
• History of Washington, D.C.
• Geography of Washington, D.C.

External Links

• Official website of Washington, D.C.
• Washington, D.C. tourism site