Is Washington D.C. Part of Columbia?

The question of whether Washington D.C. is part of Columbia is a complex issue that has intrigued many over the years. In this article, we will explore the history and legal status of Washington D.C., its relationship with the City of Washington, and why these two terms often become conflated.

Historical Context and Naming

The concept of dividing New York City into two parts, one being "New" and the other "York," is an interesting thought experiment. Similarly, the division of Washington D.C. from the original territory of the District of Columbia is rooted in historical legal and administrative decisions.

Initially, Washington D.C. was not solely part of the District of Columbia. In fact, the area now known as D.C. was created in 1790, but it was not until the Organic Act of 1871 that Georgetown and areas beyond Florida Avenue were incorporated into the city. Before this, the southern part of the city, south of the Potomac River, had already been retroceded back to Virginia, marking a significant change in the city's borders.

Two years later, President Ulysses S. Grant appointed Alexander "Boss" Shepherd as 'Governor' of the newly consolidated territory. Shepherd modernized the infrastructure significantly but faced financial issues, leading to his position's abolition the following year. The governance structure became a board of commissioners reporting back to Congress.

Legal and Administrative Status

One of the key terms used in discussing Washington D.C.'s status is coterminous. This term, defined as being coextensive or coinciding in extent, is specifically used to describe the relationship between the City of Washington and the District of Columbia. According to the Organic Act of 1873, the City of Washington and the District of Columbia are coterminous, meaning they share the same boundaries.

By 1878, the District of Columbia was officially incorporated into the name of the City of Washington. The District of Columbia was renamed, and the City of Washington essentially took on the identity of the federal territory. Thus, the term "Washington D.C." is often used to refer to both the city and the federal territory.

Modern Implications and Governance

Despite the coterminous relationship, the governance of Washington D.C. remains complicated. Unlike other U.S. states, Washington D.C. does not have full voting representation in Congress. However, it does have a mayor and a council, appointed by Congress, with limited powers and oversight.

The U.S. Capitol building, where the national legislative body operates, serves as a central hub for the city's residents and visitors. From the vantage point atop the U.S. Capitol, one can observe the entirety of the city and its ongoing development and governance.

While the term "Columbia" has historical significance and is often used to refer to Washington D.C., the legal and administrative status of the city has evolved to encompass the district name, making "Washington D.C." the prevailing term in everyday use.

Understanding the history and legal status of Washington D.C. is crucial for comprehending its unique governance structure and its distinction from other areas within the United States.