1. The St. Elizabeths Hospital was established on March 9, 1852. It was the first federal mental hospital, serving as a treatment facility for both military and civilian patients.

2. In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act on March 9, which provided $300 to slaveholders who freed their slaves in the District of Columbia.

3. The United States Navy Memorial was dedicated on March 9, 1987. Located in downtown D.C., the memorial honors those who have served in the navy, marine corps, coast guard, and merchant marine.

4. On March 9, 1961, the Supreme Court ruled in the case of McGhee v. National Life Insurance Company that insurance companies could not discriminate on the basis of race when issuing life insurance policies.

5. The famous civil rights activist, Marion Barry, was inaugurated as the first black mayor of D.C. on March 9, 1979. He served four terms as mayor and was known for his controversial personal life, but also for his efforts to improve the city's economy and social programs.