Facts over Washington D.C.
State: Washington DC
Abbreviation: DC
State since: 1970
Time zone: -5
Adjacent States:
- Maryland
- Virginia
Washington DC travel information
Washington DC is the capital of the United States and is named after the first president of the United States, George Washington. The abbreviation DC stands for “District of Columbia”. This is the special federal district that includes the capital. Washington DC does not belong to a state, because they did not want a state to exert influence on the capital. The White House and the government of America are located in Washington DC and you will find plenty of options for a fun city trip. Read the travel information about Washington DC and discover the possibilities of this American city.
History
Research shows that more than 4000 years ago Native Americans lived on the banks of the Anacostia. In the early 17th century, European settlers began to move to the area. After the establishment of the American republic, people wanted an independent capital. A city close to Georgetown was chosen. In 1791, this city was given the name of the President George Washington, namely Washington DC
Geography
Washington DC has an area of 177 km² of which about 10% consists of water. In the past, the district was a fairly swampy area with a maximum elevation of 125 meters above sea level. Washington DC is located on the Potomac River. The district is bordered on three sides by the state of Maryland. To the southwest is the state of Virginia. DC has become a large and important metropolis, but it still has many recreational areas and parks. For example, the Rock Creek Park.
Demography and economy
In 2010, Washington DC had a population of 601,723. This is 25% less than in 1950. The population decline is mainly due to the fact that many Americans have moved from the middle class. She moved to more affluent suburbs in the surrounding states of Virginia and Maryland. Partly due to the many embassies that can be found there and because it is the capital of the United States, the percentage of foreigners among the population is high.
