George Washington not only served as the namesake for the capital city of the United States, he also chose its location, perhaps envisioning the transportation possibilities that the Potomac River flowing past the site would provide.
George Washington not only served as the namesake for the capital city of the United States, he also chose its location, perhaps envisioning the transportation possibilities that the Potomac River flowing past the site would provide. The city has seen its share of conflict; in the War of 1812, British forces invaded and burned several public buildings. The Civil War marked the beginning of the city’s transformation from a provincial town to a world center of culture, history and political energy during the 20th century.
This picture was taken as the International Space Station passed over the western border of Maryland and West Virginia on May 2, 2006.Image credit: NASA