Facts on the Capital Building
The United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. is one of the most recognizable buildings in America. It also has a long and interesting history.
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Construction
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The plans for the Capitol building received approval in 1793. Construction began that same year with President George Washington laying the cornerstone himself. Construction, renovation, and restoration have been an ongoing process since then.
The Burning of the Capitol Building
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British troops set fire to the Capitol building in 1814 during the War of 1812. The fire did not consume the entire building, and repair and continuing construction began in 1815.
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The Dome
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The cast iron dome of the Capitol building is its most distinctive exterior feature. It took 11 years to build from 1855 to 1866.
The Rotunda
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The Rotunda is a large room on the second floor of the Capitol building. It has a circular shape and domed ceiling. The Rotunda often plays host to Presidential inaugurations, and deceased politicians often lie in state there.
The Capitol Today
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Today, the Capitol building occupies an area of about 16.5 acres over five levels. The third floor offers visitors a chance to watch Congressional proceedings in action from its galleries.
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