Historical Event
Construction of the White House
The construction of the White House began in 1792 and was completed in 1800 in President's Park, Washington, D.C. This neoclassical building, designed by James Hoban, was constructed primarily by enslaved Africans and European laborers, highlighting the deep interconnections between the creation of American political institutions and the institution of slavery.
Why This Matters
The White House stands as a symbol of both the power and the struggle inherent in American democracy, encapsulating themes of civil rights and resistance as African Americans have historically fought for their freedom and representation. Understanding its construction reveals the complex legacy of enslavement that is essential to both African American history and the ongoing narrative of reconnecting with continental Africa.
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