By: Dewand Hemsley

Washington, D.C., is best known as the capital of the United States, but its history is layered with untold stories—of power struggles, resilience, and the people who built the city behind the scenes. Here are some lesser-known aspects of its history.

The untold history of Washington, D.C. highlights the lesser-known aspects of the city’s past, often overshadowed by its iconic monuments and political significance. It includes the pivotal role of enslaved people in constructing government buildings, the complicated legacy of slavery and freedom in the city, and the contributions of African Americans and Native Americans who have been marginalized in mainstream narratives. Additionally, it explores the struggles for voting rights, the impact of the 1968 riots, and the vital, though often overlooked, contributions of women and other groups in shaping the nation’s capital. This history underscores the city’s complexity, marked by conflict, resistance, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Dewand Moore said this about the untold history. Washington DC is not just the home of The Presidents of the United States as well as Congress, we also have an untold story. We are the home Go-Go. Go-Go is the music created by Chuck Brown in DC. It’s sort of the heart beat of the city. We were once known as ” The City Under Siege.” The reason for this was the murders that took place within the city limits. DC even had a show called “City Under Siege” ( throughout the 1980’s). We were even known as the ” Murder Capital.” I would rather it be known as ” The Chocolate City.” This is because Washington DC throughout history has been predominantly black. We had a Mayor that was locked up for smoking crack on camera and when he was released from prison, We voted him back into office. He is now and forever will be affectionately known as ” THE MAYOR FOR LIFE.” WASHINGTON DC is definitely different to say the least. I’m just proud to call myself a Washingtonian. Moore said

Jerald Tharpe Sheds Light on Ward 8 Struggles and Untold History of D.C. Jerald Tharpe, a  Spanish teacher and Specials Lead at Ballou Senior High School, is not just an educator but also a philanthropist dedicated to addressing the deep-rooted challenges facing Washington, D.C.’s marginalized communities. Tharpe highlights the struggles of single mothers in Ward 8, where a lack of resources and economic opportunities make escaping poverty nearly impossible. He also challenges the common narrative about absent Black fathers, pointing to mass incarceration, economic disenfranchisement, and systemic barriers as the real culprits. Additionally, he raises concerns about the side effects of medications and vaccines given to Black children, emphasizing the historical mistrust of the medical system. Environmental issues, including pollution, inadequate housing, and food deserts, further contribute to the hardships these communities face. The lack of access to quality education and employment opportunities creates a cycle of poverty that continues for generations. Tharpe remains committed to shedding light on these issues and advocating for real change in Washington, D.C. Tharpe said 

 This is what Wallace Haith said about his untold history of Washington DC. Chocolate City: Washington, D.C. In the heart of America, the capital city stands as a testament to democracy, yet we remain without true representation. The phrase “taxation without representation” rings hollow here, where a majority of residents are Black Americans who lack a voice in how their federal dollars are allocated. While Washington, D.C. is often regarded as one of the most powerful cities in the world, the voices of its long-time residents are drowned out by those who come and go, the elected officials and influential figures who visit but do not stay. The stark reality is that the people who call this city home, who were born and raised here, are denied an equal say in the decisions that shape their lives. Despite the power that flows through this city, Washingtonians are not represented fairly. It’s time to amplify our voices and demand the representation we deserve. What people might know is that living in this beautiful city we are just Americans that are not truly a part of the system. Because we have a system that is causing taxation without representation! Haith said

By: shannonselin