Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/District of Columbia

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 Government 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 the President and 22 elected) was created. This form of government was continued till 1878, when the government was invested in the present three commissioners, one of whom must be an army officer, and all of whom are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Congress makes all laws for the District. Citizens of the District have no vote for National officers. There is but one government for the entire District, with which the city of Washington (q. v.) is now coextensive.