1. 1846: The Washington Monument is dedicated - After 37 years of construction, the Washington Monument in the National Mall was finally dedicated on August 3, 1846. The monument was built to honor the first president of the United States, George Washington.

2. 1963: Civil Rights March on Washington - On August 28, 1963, more than 250,000 people participated in the Civil Rights March on Washington. However, the planning and preparations for the march began on August 3, when civil rights leaders met with President John F. Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson to discuss their concerns and demands for racial equality.

3. 2000: Al Gore Acceptance Speech at Democratic National Convention - On August 3, 2000, Al Gore officially accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for president of the United States. In his acceptance speech, Gore emphasized his commitment to improving education, protecting the environment, and reforming healthcare.

4. 2007: A National Monument to Frederick Douglass - On August 3, 2007, President George W. Bush signed a bill establishing the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, located in Anacostia, D.C. The site honors the life and work of the famed abolitionist and orator who lived in the home for more than 17 years.

5. 2014: DC Mayor Marion Barry Dies - On August 3, 2014, Marion Barry, the former mayor of Washington D.C., died at the age of 78. Barry was a prominent and controversial figure in the city's politics, as he served four terms as mayor and later as a city councilmember. He was known for his commitment to civil rights and social justice, but also for his personal struggles with drug addiction and legal troubles.