OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington State holds a distinctive place in presidential history, as it is the only state directly named after a President.
When the U.S. first asserted territorial authority over what is now Washington State, it was part of the Oregon Territory. This move led to the displacement of Indigenous populations who have long been the original stewards of the Pacific Northwest.
In 1852, Congress proposed dividing the Oregon Territory along the Columbia River, which would have resulted in the establishment of the “Territory of Columbia.”
Concerns arose among lawmakers that this name was too similar to “The District of Columbia.” Consequently, they opted for “The Territory of Washington.” Despite reservations in the House regarding potential confusion with “Washington, D.C.,” the bill proceeded to passage.
Washington officially achieved statehood in 1889.
The ongoing confusion between Washington State and Washington, D.C. continues to affect modern American politics. Advocates for D.C. statehood now grapple with the challenge of finding an alternative name that isn’t already linked to Washington, with many activists proposing “Douglass Commonwealth.”
For additional historical insights into Washington’s path to statehood, you may consult this resource from the Washington State Historical Commission.
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