Washington DC Capital Dome

Description

The United States Capitol Dome Washington, D.C. Conceived by President George Washington and designed by Thomas Walter, the dome of the United States Capitol building has become a visual symbol of Washington D.C. The completion of this architectural marvel in 1865 was one of many controversial decisions made by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. The president believed that the continued construction of the dome would demonstrate to the citizens of the United States that their government was strong, vital, and united. His adversaries countered with pleas to divert the funds dedicated to the completion of the dome to the Federal army, which was in need of uniforms, weapons, and supplies. Although the dome was still under construction, during the Civil War, beneath it, the Capital's Rotunda served as general quarters for regiments from many of the northern states and in 1862 housed an emergency hospital. Deborah Panton, Arlington Texas

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