When the United States officially became a nation, there was no formal home of the Federal Government. New York City and Philadelphia had the honors of housing it temporarily, but the District of Columbia was finally chosen as a permanent location by George Washington in 1791. At the time, it was a “10-mile square” piece of land seceded by Maryland, consisting of mainly floodplain and forest. Construction soon began, and on June 11, 1800 it became the new seat of national government for our country.

During the Civil War, the nation’s capital was divided by loyalties and riddled with treason. When Virginia seceded from the Union in April of 1861, the enemy was now just across the Potomac River – a fact that greatly heightened the threat to the young city. Miraculously, there was only one battle fought in the city itself. In July 1864, Confederate General Jubal Early attacked Fort Stevens, one of the many forts that had been built around the city for protection. The battle was short-lived, and the Confederates retreated.

Since then, Washington, DC has grown into a bustling metropolis and a strong symbol of our nation. People are drawn from all over the globe to experience the traditions and innovations we have to offer. It has developed into one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, yet still maintains the essence of its colonial roots.