1. On May 29, 1790, the District of Columbia was officially established as the capital city of the United States by the Residence Act. This act authorized the creation of a new capital along the Potomac River, which would be under the exclusive jurisdiction of Congress.

2. On May 29, 1848, the Smithsonian Institution was chartered by Congress. This institution is a world-renowned museum and research complex, which consists of 19 museums and galleries, and several research facilities.

3. On May 29, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson appointed John J. Pershing as commander of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. Pershing would lead the U.S. military in Europe and help to bring an end to the war.

4. On May 29, 1943, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. was dedicated. This pool is located at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial and is a popular spot for visitors to the city.

5. On May 29, 1971, the first annual Memorial Day weekend motorcycle rally was held in Washington D.C. The event, known as Rolling Thunder, brings together thousands of motorcycle riders to pay tribute to American veterans and to raise awareness of the POW/MIA issue.