United States Capitol
The United States Capitol, often called the Capitol or the Capitol Building, is the seat of the United States Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government. It is located on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Although no longer at the geographic center of the national capital, the U.S. Capitol forms the origin point for the street-numbering system of the district as well as its four quadrants. Like the principal buildings of the executive and judicial branches, the Capitol is built in a neoclassical style and has a white exterior.
Some of the key events about United States Capitol
- 1793Cornerstone of the Capitol building was laid, marking the beginning of its construction
- 1800First session of Congress was held in the unfinished Capitol building
- 1814The Capitol was burned by British troops during the War of 1812.
- 1826The Capitol's iconic dome was completed, becoming a symbol of American democracy
- 1835A failed assassination attempt on President Andrew Jackson occurred on the Capitol steps.
- 1856A violent assault took place in the Senate chamber over the issue of slavery.
- 1865The Capitol was used as a military hospital and barracks during the Civil War
- 1915A bomb exploded in the Senate reception room, causing damage but no injuries.
- 1916The first woman was elected to Congress, expanding representation in the Capitol
- 1935The Supreme Court building was completed, separating it from the Capitol
- 1949The House and Senate chambers were renovated and modernized
- 1954Puerto Rican nationalists opened fire from the House gallery, wounding five congressmen.
- 1958The East Front extension of the Capitol was completed, adding more office space
- 1971A bomb planted by the Weather Underground exploded in the Capitol building.
- 1983A bomb detonated by the Armed Resistance Unit caused significant damage to the Senate wing.
- 1993The Capitol Visitor Center project was authorized to improve security and visitor experience
- 1998Two Capitol Police officers were fatally shot by a gunman who entered the building.
- 2001The Capitol was evacuated as a potential target during the September 11 terrorist attacks.
- 2008The Capitol Visitor Center was opened to the public, enhancing accessibility and education
- 2021Rioters breached and vandalized the Capitol building in an attempt to overturn the presidential election results.
Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.
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