1. In 1781, the first official bank of the United States, the Bank of North America, opened its doors in Philadelphia. Later, in 1801, the District of Columbia would become home to the second official bank of the United States.

2. On January 2, 1817, the African Methodist Episcopal Church organized its first conference in the United States in Baltimore, Maryland. The AME Church played a vital role in the African American community, providing a safe space for worship and political organizing during a time of slavery and segregation.

3. In 1871, residents of the District of Columbia gained the right to vote in local elections. However, it wasn't until the passage of the 23rd Amendment in 1961 that residents were granted the ability to vote in presidential elections.

4. On January 2, 1893, Alice Paul was born in New Jersey. Paul would become a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement and would later organize the National Women's Party, which fought for the passage of the 19th Amendment.

5. In 1974, the District of Columbia Height Act was passed, which set strict building height limitations in the city. The law was passed in response to concerns over the city's appearance and the potential impact of tall buildings on the various government landmarks and monuments throughout the city.