 "White House. Image courtesy: whitehouse.gov")
The White House and its surrounding grounds serve as both the residence of the President of the United States and the First Family and as a living museum of American history.
Notably, every US President since John Adams has occupied the White House, with its history reaching far beyond the construction of its walls. The site was chosen in 1791 by the first US President, George Washington.
In 1814, British forces set fire to the White House during the War of 1812 in retaliation for American actions in the Canadas. The burning affected much of Washington, DC, at that time.
From the Ground Floor Corridor rooms, originally service areas, to the State Floor rooms that have hosted countless dignitaries and leaders, the White House continues to be both a family home and a symbol of American history.
Today, it draws over 1.5 million visitors annually. In 1995, due to terrorism concerns, the section of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House was closed to vehicles, becoming a popular pedestrian and skating area.
Throughout its history, the White House has been referred to as the “President’s Palace,” the “President’s House,” and the “Executive Mansion.” In 1901, President Theodore Roosevelt officially named it the White House.
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to move into the White House in January as the 47th US President, here’s a look at some fascinating facts about this historic landmark: