Washington, DC

Washington, the capital city of the United States of America, is named after George Washington, first president of the United States. It is not part of a state, but a special administrative area called the District of Columbia after Christopher Columbus. Today, the boundaries of Washington and DC are conterminous.

Washington was built according to plans made by Pierre Charles L'Enfant, on a grid centered at the U.S. Capitol. Its exact location was selected by President Washington as directed by Congress in 1790 (a portion purchased from Virginia was later returned). The federal government moved to Washington in 1800.

The District is home to numerous museums, parks, and art galleries as well as organizations and agencies affiliated with the government and public policy. Technology is increasingly prominent in the local economy.

Category Scope: This category includes sites about or directly relevant to Washington, DC. It includes sites about the District itself and sites covering its metropolitan area.