Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Wizards to sign forward Saddiq Bey to 3-year, $20 million deal.

• Upcoming DIIV concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Carter G. Woodson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Don’t count the days. Make the days count.”

—Muhammad Ali

Sponsored

Tackle your credit card debt with 0% interest until nearly 2026

If you have outstanding credit card debt, getting a new 0% intro APR credit card could help ease the pressure while you pay down your balances. Our credit card experts identified top credit cards that are perfect for anyone looking to pay down debt and not add to it.

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which street in Washington DC is famous for its diplomatic missions and historic mansions?

A) Pennsylvania Avenue

B) Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row

C) K Street NW

D) Connecticut Avenue

Answer to Week 26's Trivia:

The name of the garden located behind the Smithsonian Castle, known for its elaborate themed gardens and outdoor sculpture museum, is D) The Enid A. Haupt Garden.

News

💼 Business

Developer wins approval for residential infill at Fairfax office park. (Link)

Kings Dominion receives approval for new roller coaster. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Wizards to sign forward Saddiq Bey to 3-year, $20 million deal. (Link)

Steele baffles Orioles for seven innings as Cubs complete sweep with rout. (Link)

🏦 Finance

New mansion by Langley High School hits the market for $29.99M. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports Events

⚾ Cincinnati Reds at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Friday, Jul. 19th to Sunday, Jul. 21st | (More info)

⚾ San Diego Padres at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Wednesday, Jul. 24th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 Cola, Prude, and Devon Welsh
Songbyrd, Washington, DC
Monday, Jul. 15th | (More info)

🎵 DIIV
Howard Theatre, Washington, DC
Tuesday, Jul. 16th | (More info)

Family-Friendly Events

🎉 Tunes in the Triangle // Cary Wimbish
499 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC
Wednesday, July 17 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Metropolis of Washington DC with a massive central AI-controlled hub” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Washington D.C. Historical Events

Persian Gulf War (1991) - The war's start and end are major events in the city, with rallies and political actions.

The Persian Gulf War, which stretched from late 1990 into early 1991, was marked by its intense repercussions, not just on the battleground but also on the home front, particularly in the United States' capital, Washington DC. The conflict commenced after Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, prompting a swift international response led by the United States under President George H.W. Bush. The war's onset was a significant event in Washington DC, catalyzing a flurry of diplomatic and military activities, as well as public responses ranging from support to vehement opposition. The city witnessed numerous rallies, demonstrations, and political actions, as policymakers debated the course of the United States' involvement, while public figures and citizens alike took to the streets to voice their opinions.

Throughout the conflict, Washington DC was a hub of strategic planning and international coordination. The Pentagon, located just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, was central to the military's operational planning, working closely with allies to execute what would be known as Operation Desert Storm. At the same time, the city saw an increase in security measures, given the heightened threat level. The political landscape was charged, with Congress deliberating and eventually supporting military action, reflecting the tension within the nation over the decision to go to war.

The end of the Persian Gulf War in late February 1991, following a swift and decisive victory by Coalition forces, marked another significant moment for Washington DC. The city hosted a victory parade in June 1991, a rare spectacle attended by hundreds of thousands, celebrating the return of American troops. President Bush and other key political figures hailed the success of the operation as a demonstration of U.S. military prowess and international leadership. However, the aftermath of the war also continued to spark debates around U.S. foreign policy, military engagement, and the broader implications for global politics, discussions that resonated within the halls of power and the streets of Washington DC for years to come.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950)

Carter Godwin Woodson, often referred to as the ""Father of Black History,"" was a pivotal figure in the study and promotion of African American history. His life and legacy have had an enduring impact on how history is taught and understood, not just in the United States but globally.

Early Years and Education (1875-1903)

Born to former slaves in New Canton, Virginia, Carter G. Woodson's early life was marked by hardship and a relentless pursuit of education. Despite starting formal schooling late, due to working in coal mines to support his family, Woodson's fervent self-instruction and determination led him to Douglas High School, where he excelled.

Higher Education and Academic Foundations (1903-1912)

Woodson's academic journey continued at Berea College in Kentucky, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. Not resting on his laurels, he went on to receive a Master's degree from the University of Chicago and, in 1912, became the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University, focusing on history.

Establishing a Career in Education (1912-1920)

After completing his education, Woodson embarked on a career in education, teaching in public schools and serving as a principal. His experience in the educational system further fueled his passion for African American history and the need for its inclusion in the national narrative.

Founding the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) (1915)

In 1915, recognizing the need for a formal organization to promote the study of African American history, Woodson co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now ASALH). This organization would become instrumental in fostering a scholarly approach to the study and celebration of Black history.

Journal of Negro History and Negro History Week (1916-1926)

Woodson founded the Journal of Negro History in 1916, providing an academic platform for the publication of black historical research. In 1926, he initiated the celebration of Negro History Week, chosen in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, laying the foundation for what would become Black History Month.

Advocacy and Publications (1926-1940)

Throughout these years, Woodson was a prolific writer, publishing numerous books and articles aimed at correcting the misrepresentation of African Americans in history. His seminal work, The Mis-Education of the Negro (1933), critiqued the American educational system for its failure to represent African American historical achievements.

Connection to Washington DC

Woodson spent much of his professional life in Washington D.C., where he established the headquarters for ASALH. His home in the Shaw neighborhood became a hub for intellectual discussion and is now recognized as the Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site.

Legacy and Influence (1940-1950)

Woodson's commitment to education and history left an indelible mark on the academic world and African American communities. His efforts to institutionalize the study of Black history have inspired countless scholars and educators. Woodson passed away in 1950, but his legacy lives on through ASALH and Black History Month celebrations.

Posthumous Recognition and Continuing Impact (1950 and Beyond)

After his death, Woodson's work gained even greater recognition. In 1976, Black History Month was officially recognized by the U.S. government, largely due to Woodson's early advocacy. His vision for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of American history continues to influence educators and historians.

Reflections on Carter G. Woodson's Life

Carter G. Woodson led a life marked by a steadfast dedication to education and the empowerment of African Americans through knowledge of their history and contributions. His efforts to institutionalize the study of Black history have transformed educational curricula and fostered a greater appreciation for the complexity and richness of the American experience.

Key Achievements of Carter G. Woodson:

• Earned a Ph.D. from Harvard University, becoming the second African American to do so.

• Founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).

• Launched the Journal of Negro History.

• Initiator of Negro History Week, the precursor to Black History Month.

• Authored the landmark book, The Mis-Education of the Negro.

Carter G. Woodson's life was a testament to the power of education and the importance of history in shaping identity and consciousness. His tireless advocacy for the comprehensive study of Black history fundamentally transformed academic disciplines and societal understanding of African American experiences. His legacy endures, reminding us of the continued importance of history in the pursuit of equality and justice.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll