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District of Columbia

the Federal district of the United States, containing the National capital. Named for Columbus. Fixed as seat of United States Government in 1790 by an act of Congress. Formed out of Washington co., Md. (64 square miles), a portion of Virginian territory offered the Govern ment being not now included. The United States Government removed to the District in 1800. The city of Washington was captured by the British in 1814, and the Capitol and Executive Mansion were burned. The District was governed by Congress till 1871, when a legislative body of 33 (11 appointed by