1. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, creating the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which has had a significant presence in Washington, D.C. over the years. Today, the agency's headquarters is located in the city's Southwest neighborhood.

2. On July 9, 1868, the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, granting citizenship to all individuals born or naturalized in the United States and protecting their rights from infringement by states. The amendment would be crucial in the fight for civil rights in the decades that followed.

3. In 1917, the Shipstead-Luce Act was signed into law, establishing the National Capital Parks system and providing for the preservation of many of the District's most historic and scenic locations. Today, the National Mall, Rock Creek Park, and other iconic sites fall under the purview of this system.

4. On July 9, 1943, the HR 1955 bill was signed into law, creating the District's first non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. Today, Eleanor Holmes Norton holds this position and has represented the city since 1991.

5. Finally, on July 9, 1973, the District of Columbia Home Rule Act was signed into law, granting the city greater autonomy in governing its own affairs. This act established a mayor and city council, and transferred certain powers from the federal government to the District.