1. On August 2, 1917, the Washington Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was officially founded in the District of Columbia. The organization played a crucial role in the civil rights movement and continues to fight for social justice today.

2. In 1923, President Warren G. Harding signed the Fordney-McCumber Tariff Act into law on August 2, which raised tariffs on imported goods in an attempt to protect American businesses. The act ultimately had unintended consequences, including worsening the Great Depression.

3. On this day in 1951, segregationist groups staged a protest in front of the White House against President Harry Truman's efforts to desegregate the military. The protest turned violent, with some demonstrators attacking African American bystanders.

4. Notable musician and composer Duke Ellington was born on August 2, 1899, in Washington, D.C. Ellington went on to become one of the most famous jazz musicians in history and is celebrated for his contributions to American music.

5. In 1990, then-Mayor Marion Barry declared August 2 as "Give Peace a Chance Day" in the District of Columbia, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Beatles song of the same name. The celebration aimed to promote peace and non-violence in the city.