“Columbia” is a poetic and historical name for the United States, derived from Christopher Columbus. In the 18th century, the name “Columbia” was often used to symbolize the United States, appearing in literature, songs, and even as the personification of America.

Washington, D.C., as the District of Columbia The creation of Washington, D.C., as the capital of the United States, traces back to the late 18th century. The U.S. Constitution authorized Congress to establish a federal district to serve as the nation’s capital. In 1790, the Residence Act designated a 100-square-mile area along the Potomac River for this purpose.

The land for the district was ceded by Maryland and Virginia. The name “District of Columbia” reflected the poetic usage of “Columbia” as a symbol for the new republic, while the city itself was named after George Washington, the nation’s first president.

Over time, the “District of Columbia” came to refer to the entire federal area that houses the capital city, Washington. Today, Washington, D.C., is synonymous with the political and administrative center of the United States.