1. 1965 - The Washington Metro Area Transit Authority is created.
On January 4, 1965, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) was created to plan, develop, build, and operate a coordinated regional transportation system in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

2. 1865 - The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery.
On January 4, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified by Congress, officially abolishing slavery in the United States.

3. 1975 - The U.S. Senate refuses to seat Adam Clayton Powell Jr. due to his alleged misconduct and corruption.
On January 4, 1975, the U.S. Senate voted to refuse to seat Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a Democratic congressman from Harlem, due to his alleged misconduct and corruption.

4. 1966 - The United States Capitol is damaged in a fire.
On January 4, 1966, the United States Capitol was damaged in a fire that started in an attic on the Senate side of the building. The fire caused significant damage to the building but was eventually contained.

5. 1919 - The first municipal airport in the United States is established in Washington, D.C.
On January 4, 1919, the first municipal airport in the United States was established in Washington, D.C. The airport was located on the site of what is now Reagan National Airport and was used primarily for mail and commercial flights.