The Pentagon

The Pentagon is the headquarters building of the United States Department of Defense, in Arlington County, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The building was constructed on an accelerated schedule during World War II. As a symbol of the U.S. military, the phrase The Pentagon is often used as a metonym for the Department of Defense and its leadership.
the-pentagon

Some of the key events about The Pentagon

  • 1942
    Constructed as the world's largest office building, criticized for its massive size and cost during wartime
  • 1943
    Construction of the world's largest office building was completed in just 16 months
  • 1947
    Established as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense
  • 1958
    Created the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), which later developed the precursor to the internet
  • 1967
    Targeted by anti-Vietnam War protesters in a large-scale demonstration
  • 1969
    Developed the Global Positioning System (GPS) for military use
  • 1970
    Faced accusations of domestic surveillance against U.S. citizens during the Vietnam War era
  • 1971
    Leaked "Pentagon Papers" revealed misleading public statements about the Vietnam War
  • 1973
    Implemented the All-Volunteer Force, ending military conscription in the United States
  • 1986
    Launched the Strategic Defense Initiative to research and develop systems to defend against ballistic missile attacks
  • 1991
    Successfully coordinated Operation Desert Storm, demonstrating advanced military capabilities
  • 2001
    Withstood a direct terrorist attack on September 11, with the building remaining largely intact
  • 2001
    Attacked on September 11, resulting in 125 deaths within the building
  • 2003
    Criticized for providing inaccurate intelligence to justify the Iraq War
  • 2006
    Revealed to be running a secret program for domestic data collection without warrants
  • 2010
    Established the U.S. Cyber Command to defend against cyber threats
  • 2010
    Wikileaks published classified documents exposing controversial military practices
  • 2013
    Edward Snowden leaks revealed extensive global surveillance programs
  • 2019
    Created the U.S. Space Force as the sixth branch of the U.S. military
  • 2021
    Faced scrutiny over the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

The Pentagon Latest news

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Israel Faces Global Opposition to Potential Lebanon Operation

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Israel Strikes Hezbollah as US Boosts Middle East Presence

Israel Strikes Hezbollah as US Boosts Middle East Presence

September 24 2024, 10:37 AM  •  3744 views
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Biden's Final UN Address: Navigating Global Conflicts and Legacy Challenges

September 24 2024, 05:10 AM  •  363 views
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U.S. Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Rising Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

September 23 2024, 07:18 PM  •  720 views
US Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

US Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

September 23 2024, 05:32 PM  •  473 views
Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

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Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

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Russia Vows to Defend Arctic Interests Amid Rising Tensions with NATO

Russia Vows to Defend Arctic Interests Amid Rising Tensions with NATO

September 19 2024, 11:39 PM  •  909 views
Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

September 19 2024, 11:24 PM  •  332 views
Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  120 views
U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel

U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel

September 18 2024, 04:27 PM  •  688 views
U.S. Completes Troop Withdrawal from Niger, Reshaping Sahel Security Landscape

U.S. Completes Troop Withdrawal from Niger, Reshaping Sahel Security Landscape

September 16 2024, 07:08 PM  •  500 views
Ex-Pentagon Official Pleads Guilty in Long-Running Dogfighting Case

Ex-Pentagon Official Pleads Guilty in Long-Running Dogfighting Case

September 13 2024, 09:58 PM  •  610 views
Ukraine Seeks Western Approval for Long-Range Strikes on Russian Soil

Ukraine Seeks Western Approval for Long-Range Strikes on Russian Soil

September 13 2024, 02:10 PM  •  544 views
U.S. Aid to Ukraine at Risk: $6 Billion Set to Expire Without Congress Action

U.S. Aid to Ukraine at Risk: $6 Billion Set to Expire Without Congress Action

September 13 2024, 02:49 AM  •  929 views
Israel's Multi-Front Conflict: Diverging Views on Middle East Peace

Israel's Multi-Front Conflict: Diverging Views on Middle East Peace

September 12 2024, 07:44 PM  •  591 views
Russia Maintains Crisis Hotlines Amid Escalating Nuclear Tensions

Russia Maintains Crisis Hotlines Amid Escalating Nuclear Tensions

Russia confirms operational emergency hotlines with the US and NATO as nuclear risks rise. Moscow perceives NATO's increased focus on nuclear weapons, prompting updates to its own nuclear doctrine.

Society, Politics • October 8 2024, 07:37 AM  •  581 views
FEMA Chief Combats Misinformation as Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises

FEMA Chief Combats Misinformation as Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell refutes false claims about Hurricane Helene response. Massive relief efforts continue as death toll reaches 230, with new threat from Hurricane Milton approaching Florida.

Society, Politics • October 7 2024, 09:41 PM  •  540 views
U.S. Approves $965 Million in Military Sales to Italy, India, and Romania

U.S. Approves $965 Million in Military Sales to Italy, India, and Romania

The U. S. State Department has greenlit potential military equipment sales to Italy, India, and Romania, totaling $965 million. The deals include torpedoes, radar systems, and electronic attack systems.

Economics, Politics • October 7 2024, 07:39 PM  •  522 views
Biden Administration Grapples with Gaza Crisis as War Anniversary Looms

Biden Administration Grapples with Gaza Crisis as War Anniversary Looms

Internal emails reveal early concerns about Gaza casualties and potential war crimes. U.S. officials debated humanitarian issues and military aid to Israel as the conflict unfolded.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 05:49 PM  •  379 views
U.S. Facilitates Limited Evacuation from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. Facilitates Limited Evacuation from Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

As conflict escalates in Lebanon, the U. S. arranges flights for about 250 Americans. Officials meet to address evacuation challenges, while thousands of U.S. citizens remain amid airstrikes and dwindling flight options.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 03:19 AM  •  595 views
Iran's Advanced Missiles Challenge Israel's Defenses in Latest Attack

Iran's Advanced Missiles Challenge Israel's Defenses in Latest Attack

Iran launched a sophisticated missile attack on Israel, employing advanced weaponry that tested defense systems. The strike, larger than April's, used solid-fuel missiles with improved accuracy and maneuverability.

Politics, Science • October 2 2024, 10:55 AM  •  4519 views
U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

U.S. Backs Israel's Actions, Condemns Iran's Missile Attack

Biden administration distinguishes between Israeli self-defense and Iran's "escalatory" missile attack. U.S. supports Israel's operations against Hezbollah while aiming to prevent wider Middle East conflict.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 10:04 AM  •  31 views
U.S. Bolsters Middle East Military Presence Amid Regional Tensions

U.S. Bolsters Middle East Military Presence Amid Regional Tensions

The Pentagon announces deployment of additional troops and aircraft to the Middle East, raising the total U. S. military presence to around 43,000. This move comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Politics • September 30 2024, 10:06 PM  •  46 views
U.S. Unaware of Israeli Strike in Beirut, Warns of Escalation Risk

U.S. Unaware of Israeli Strike in Beirut, Warns of Escalation Risk

Pentagon reveals no prior knowledge of Israeli operation in Beirut. U.S. Defense Secretary Austin expresses concern over potential all-out war, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 08:45 PM  •  254 views
Israel Faces Limited International Support for Potential Lebanon Operation

Israel Faces Limited International Support for Potential Lebanon Operation

Diplomatic efforts for an Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire falter as Western nations urge restraint. Meanwhile, the U.S. announces significant military aid for Ukraine and AUKUS explores new defense technologies.

Politics • September 27 2024, 11:22 AM  •  79 views
Israel Faces Global Opposition to Potential Lebanon Operation

Israel Faces Global Opposition to Potential Lebanon Operation

International community, including Western allies, expresses concern over Israel's potential ground operation in Lebanon. Efforts for ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah falter as tensions escalate in the region.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 11:21 AM  •  58 views
Israel Secures $8.7 Billion U.S. Aid Package for Defense Systems

Israel Secures $8.7 Billion U.S. Aid Package for Defense Systems

Israel obtains substantial U. S. military aid, including funds for critical defense systems. The package aims to maintain Israel's regional military advantage amidst ongoing conflicts.

Politics • September 27 2024, 10:27 AM  •  44 views
Tuberville Lifts Hold on Key Military Promotion After Private Meeting

Tuberville Lifts Hold on Key Military Promotion After Private Meeting

Senator Tuberville ends blockade on Lt. Gen. Clark's promotion to Pacific commander following a private discussion. The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Defense Secretary Austin's hospitalization incident.

Politics • September 26 2024, 08:18 AM  •  12031 views
Washington Post Clinches Five Online Journalism Awards, Secures 11 Finalist Spots

Washington Post Clinches Five Online Journalism Awards, Secures 11 Finalist Spots

The Washington Post excels in the Online Journalism Awards, winning five categories and earning 11 finalist positions. The accolades span investigative reporting, conflict coverage, and innovative storytelling.

Society, Politics, Culture • September 25 2024, 04:24 PM  •  1213 views
Israeli Focus Shifts from Gaza to Lebanon as Strikes Intensify

Israeli Focus Shifts from Gaza to Lebanon as Strikes Intensify

Israeli military operations in Lebanon escalate as Gaza experiences reduced strikes. Gazans express mixed feelings about the shift, while international efforts for peace continue amidst rising regional tensions.

Society, Politics • September 24 2024, 02:04 PM  •  4795 views
Israel Strikes Hezbollah as US Boosts Middle East Presence

Israel Strikes Hezbollah as US Boosts Middle East Presence

Israel targets Hezbollah in Lebanon amid rising tensions. US deploys additional troops to the Middle East. Biden prepares for final UN address as China unveils economic stimulus measures.

Economics, Politics • September 24 2024, 10:37 AM  •  3744 views
Biden's Final UN Address: Navigating Global Conflicts and Legacy Challenges

Biden's Final UN Address: Navigating Global Conflicts and Legacy Challenges

President Biden prepares for his last UN General Assembly speech, addressing Middle East tensions and Ukraine support. His foreign policy legacy hangs in the balance amid escalating conflicts.

Society, Politics • September 24 2024, 05:10 AM  •  363 views
U.S. Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Rising Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

U.S. Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Rising Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

The Pentagon announces deployment of additional troops to the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah. Naval movements and potential carrier redeployments highlight U.S. readiness in the region.

Politics • September 23 2024, 07:18 PM  •  720 views
US Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

US Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

Pentagon announces deployment of additional US troops to the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah. The move comes amid widespread Israeli strikes in Lebanon.

Society, Politics • September 23 2024, 05:32 PM  •  473 views
Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

The Defense Innovation Unit's efforts to modernize military technology face bureaucratic hurdles and cultural clashes. Despite challenges, commercial tech is reshaping warfare, but its transformative impact remains debated.

Business, Politics, Science • September 21 2024, 03:25 PM  •  1035 views
Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

Pentagon's Tech Revolution: Bridging the Silicon Valley-Military Divide

The Defense Innovation Unit's efforts to modernize military technology face challenges and successes. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, commercial tech is reshaping warfare, but its transformative impact remains debated.

Business, Politics, Science • September 20 2024, 06:51 PM  •  691 views
Russia Vows to Defend Arctic Interests Amid Rising Tensions with NATO

Russia Vows to Defend Arctic Interests Amid Rising Tensions with NATO

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov pledges to protect Russia's Arctic interests as NATO increases military exercises in the region. The statement comes amid growing tensions and strategic importance of the Arctic.

Economics, Politics • September 19 2024, 11:39 PM  •  909 views
Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel informed the US of a planned Lebanon operation, followed by explosions of Hezbollah communication devices. Multiple high-level calls ensued amid rising regional tensions.

Society, Politics • September 19 2024, 11:24 PM  •  332 views
Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

U. S. maintains current military posture in Middle East despite recent attacks in Lebanon. Pentagon emphasizes desire to reduce regional tensions as Gaza ceasefire efforts continue.

Society, Politics • September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  120 views
U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel

U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel

Government inspectors general prepare to publish investigations into U. S. weapons provision to Israel for Gaza operations. Reports follow concerns over potential law violations in arms transfers.

Society, Politics • September 18 2024, 04:27 PM  •  688 views
U.S. Completes Troop Withdrawal from Niger, Reshaping Sahel Security Landscape

U.S. Completes Troop Withdrawal from Niger, Reshaping Sahel Security Landscape

U. S. forces have fully withdrawn from Niger, marking a significant shift in regional security dynamics. Only embassy guards remain as Niger turns to Russia for military support, impacting counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel.

Politics • September 16 2024, 07:08 PM  •  500 views
Ex-Pentagon Official Pleads Guilty in Long-Running Dogfighting Case

Ex-Pentagon Official Pleads Guilty in Long-Running Dogfighting Case

Former Pentagon deputy CIO Frederick Moorefield Jr. admits to dogfighting charges after years of involvement. Evidence revealed cruel practices and an interstate ring, leading to potential prison time.

Society • September 13 2024, 09:58 PM  •  610 views
Ukraine Seeks Western Approval for Long-Range Strikes on Russian Soil

Ukraine Seeks Western Approval for Long-Range Strikes on Russian Soil

Ukraine requests permission to use Western-provided missiles for strikes inside Russia, citing strategic necessity. Western allies remain cautious due to potential escalation with nuclear-armed Russia.

Politics • September 13 2024, 02:10 PM  •  544 views
U.S. Aid to Ukraine at Risk: $6 Billion Set to Expire Without Congress Action

U.S. Aid to Ukraine at Risk: $6 Billion Set to Expire Without Congress Action

Nearly $6 billion in U. S. aid for Ukraine will expire by month's end without Congressional approval. The Biden administration seeks an extension, while the Pentagon explores alternatives to maintain support.

Economics, Politics • September 13 2024, 02:49 AM  •  929 views
Israel's Multi-Front Conflict: Diverging Views on Middle East Peace

Israel's Multi-Front Conflict: Diverging Views on Middle East Peace

Israel perceives a "seven-front war" with Iran, while the U. S. pursues diplomatic solutions. Differing perspectives on the conflict's scope and resolution strategies emerge as regional tensions persist.

Society, Politics • September 12 2024, 07:44 PM  •  591 views