Washington, D.C., officially known as the District of Columbia, is the capital city and federal district of the United States. It is located on the Potomac River, bordered by Maryland to the north and east and Virginia to the south. Founded in 1791 and named after George Washington, it serves as the seat of the U.S. federal government and hosts many important buildings such as the White House, U.S. Capitol, and Supreme Court. The city is governed by a locally elected mayor and council, but Congress retains ultimate authority. Washington, D.C. is also a major political, cultural, and tourist center with numerous monuments, museums, embassies, and international organizations headquartered there.
