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

Trump defense pick meets senators but support remains unclear

Trump defense pick meets senators but support remains unclear

December 5 2024 , 09:36 PM  •  994 views
Military veteran faces tough path to Pentagon leadership role

Military veteran faces tough path to Pentagon leadership role

December 5 2024 , 08:52 PM  •  861 views
Trump's Defense pick faces tough road as backup candidates emerge

Trump's Defense pick faces tough road as backup candidates emerge

December 4 2024 , 07:48 PM  •  755 views
Top AI firm teams up with defense tech company for Pentagon projects

Top AI firm teams up with defense tech company for Pentagon projects

December 4 2024 , 07:04 PM  •  768 views
Pentagon leadership pick hits roadblock as Trump team explores other options

Pentagon leadership pick hits roadblock as Trump team explores other options

December 4 2024 , 04:23 PM  •  1575 views
Trump might switch defense secretary pick after surprise Senate roadblock

Trump might switch defense secretary pick after surprise Senate roadblock

December 4 2024 , 03:12 PM  •  3123 views
Trump might swap Pentagon pick as nomination hits unexpected roadblock

Trump might swap Pentagon pick as nomination hits unexpected roadblock

December 4 2024 , 08:43 AM  •  682 views
South Korean leader's sudden martial law move leads to global diplomatic freeze

South Korean leader's sudden martial law move leads to global diplomatic freeze

December 4 2024 , 08:37 AM  •  677 views
Trump's Pentagon pick raises eyebrows as Senate prepares for key meetings

Trump's Pentagon pick raises eyebrows as Senate prepares for key meetings

December 3 2024 , 08:44 PM  •  694 views
Wealthy defense investor gets surprising top Pentagon job offer from Trump

Wealthy defense investor gets surprising top Pentagon job offer from Trump

December 3 2024 , 05:32 PM  •  778 views
US readies new weapon package for Ukraine with special missile systems

US readies new weapon package for Ukraine with special missile systems

December 2 2024 , 05:44 PM  •  992 views
China objects to new US military deal with Taiwan and presidential visit plans

China objects to new US military deal with Taiwan and presidential visit plans

December 2 2024 , 01:17 PM  •  121 views
US gives green light to massive Taiwan defense deal as president starts Pacific tour

US gives green light to massive Taiwan defense deal as president starts Pacific tour

November 30 2024 , 08:53 AM  •  2535 views
From Mao to modern America: History shows dangerous signs of repeating

From Mao to modern America: History shows dangerous signs of repeating

November 27 2024 , 12:07 PM  •  2040 views
Pentagon's military study faces questions after major flaws discovered

Pentagon's military study faces questions after major flaws discovered

November 26 2024 , 09:15 PM  •  1038 views
Fox host uses new Pentagon study to address military personnel behavior patterns

Fox host uses new Pentagon study to address military personnel behavior patterns

November 26 2024 , 08:50 PM  •  997 views
Mysterious drones spotted at US military bases across England - officials respond

Mysterious drones spotted at US military bases across England - officials respond

November 26 2024 , 07:52 PM  •  1089 views
Senator stops key military promotion linked to historic Afghanistan departure

Senator stops key military promotion linked to historic Afghanistan departure

November 25 2024 , 11:10 PM  •  1143 views
Former congressman steps down from top justice role race, Trump picks new candidate

Former congressman steps down from top justice role race, Trump picks new candidate

November 22 2024 , 11:51 AM  •  5105 views
Former Fox host's past surfaces as Pentagon nomination moves forward

Former Fox host's past surfaces as Pentagon nomination moves forward

November 22 2024 , 03:37 AM  •  2904 views
Pentagon alerts: New Russian super-missile might strike Ukraine within days

Pentagon alerts: New Russian super-missile might strike Ukraine within days

Pentagon warns about possible launch of Russias new Oreshnik missile against Ukraine based on fresh intel data. US officials dont see it as crucial weapon but promise more defense aid to Kyiv

Politics, Science • December 11 2024 , 08:25 PM  •  52189 views
Lithuanian defense chief warns: Europe must pay its fair share for protection

Lithuanian defense chief warns: Europe must pay its fair share for protection

Lithuanian Defence Minister points out unfair US defense spending burden and calls for European action. She highlights need for stronger military industries while warning about Russiaʼs expanding military plans

Economics, Politics • December 11 2024 , 07:55 PM  •  59219 views
Pentagon's new missile defense test near Guam shows unexpected results

Pentagon's new missile defense test near Guam shows unexpected results

US military completed its first-ever missile defense test near Guam using new radar system and advanced interceptor. The successful operation marks a big step for protecting this strategic Pacific location

Politics, Science • December 11 2024 , 07:28 AM  •  3038 views
Pentagon strikes 75 targets in Syria to block militant group's comeback plans

Pentagon strikes 75 targets in Syria to block militant group's comeback plans

US military carried out wide-scale desert strikes against IS positions in Syria. Pentagon aims to stop militants from gaining ground in unstable regions after Assadʼs fall

Society, Politics • December 10 2024 , 07:18 AM  •  2860 views
Breaking: Assad's sudden exit reshapes Middle East power structure

Breaking: Assad's sudden exit reshapes Middle East power structure

Syrian president leaves Damascus as rebels take control of the capital city. International community calls for peaceful transition while regional powers scramble to address new reality in Middle-East

Society, Politics • December 8 2024 , 04:01 PM  •  3429 views
Breaking: Syrian power shift pushes US to rethink its middle east strategy

Breaking: Syrian power shift pushes US to rethink its middle east strategy

Syrian rebels take control in Damascus as US plans to keep troops in eastern regions. Pentagon official points to ISIS concerns while new government includes former-terrorist group members

Society, Politics • December 8 2024 , 11:35 AM  •  2462 views
US gives Ukraine almost $1B in military aid - see what's inside the package

US gives Ukraine almost $1B in military aid - see what's inside the package

Pentagon announced new military-aid for Ukraine that includes high-tech rockets and drones. The package worth $988M comes as remaining security funds drop to half of initial amount

Business, Politics • December 8 2024 , 04:27 AM  •  2148 views
Trump stands firm as Pentagon pick faces unexpected past revelations

Trump stands firm as Pentagon pick faces unexpected past revelations

Former president backs his choice for Pentagon leadership despite controversial reports about drinking history. Support campaign launches as nomination process moves forward

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 04:03 PM  •  4307 views
Pentagon pick faces tough road: Trump stands firm as senators raise questions

Pentagon pick faces tough road: Trump stands firm as senators raise questions

Trump backs **Pete Hegseth** for Pentagon chief despite growing questions from lawmakers. Former military officer faces Senate scrutiny over past incidents while alternative candidates emerge

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 08:17 AM  •  3662 views
Military brass targeted: Conservative group's list stirs Pentagon unease

Military brass targeted: Conservative group's list stirs Pentagon unease

A right-wing foundation names 20 top military leaders in controversial dismissal proposal. Internal discussions at Pentagon shift as officers deal with uncertain future under new administration

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 01:25 AM  •  3528 views
Trump defense pick meets senators but support remains unclear

Trump defense pick meets senators but support remains unclear

Former TV host and military vet **Pete Hegseth** seeks senators approval for Pentagon top job. His non-stop meetings with lawmakers bring mixed reactions while personal matters stay in focus

Society, Politics • December 5 2024 , 09:36 PM  •  994 views
Military veteran faces tough path to Pentagon leadership role

Military veteran faces tough path to Pentagon leadership role

Former military officer **Pete Hegseth** needs key senators support for Pentagon chief position. Senator **Joni Ernst**‚ a combat veteran herself isnt ready to back his nomination despite his decorated service record

Society, Politics • December 5 2024 , 08:52 PM  •  861 views
Trump's Defense pick faces tough road as backup candidates emerge

Trump's Defense pick faces tough road as backup candidates emerge

Trumpʼs nominee for Defense Secretary meets key-senators while dealing with personal-life questions. Alternative candidates appear as Republican leaders express doubts about the ex-Fox hostʼs past

Society, Politics • December 4 2024 , 07:48 PM  •  755 views
Top AI firm teams up with defense tech company for Pentagon projects

Top AI firm teams up with defense tech company for Pentagon projects

Two major tech companies join forces to develop military AI solutions. OpenAI brings its expertise while Anduril adds military hardware know-how into groundbreaking partnership

Business, Politics, Science • December 4 2024 , 07:04 PM  •  768 views
Pentagon leadership pick hits roadblock as Trump team explores other options

Pentagon leadership pick hits roadblock as Trump team explores other options

Trumpʼs Pentagon nominee faces tough questions from Senate about personal matters. Transition team already looking at new candidates including Floridaʼs governor

Society, Politics • December 4 2024 , 04:23 PM  •  1575 views
Trump might switch defense secretary pick after surprise Senate roadblock

Trump might switch defense secretary pick after surprise Senate roadblock

Trump team re-evaluates Pete Hegsethʼs nomination for defense secretary due to Senate confirmation issues. Former rival Ron DeSantis emerges as potential replacement after recent talks

Society, Politics • December 4 2024 , 03:12 PM  •  3123 views
Trump might swap Pentagon pick as nomination hits unexpected roadblock

Trump might swap Pentagon pick as nomination hits unexpected roadblock

Trumpʼs defense secretary nominee faces growing questions about personal history. Former presidential rival and ex-Navy officer might get surprise second look for top military post

Politics • December 4 2024 , 08:43 AM  •  682 views
South Korean leader's sudden martial law move leads to global diplomatic freeze

South Korean leader's sudden martial law move leads to global diplomatic freeze

South Korean Presidentʼs overnight martial-law attempt backfired causing international partners to cancel meetings. Swedish PM‚ US officials and Japanese delegates dropped planned visits after the six-hour crisis

Society, Politics • December 4 2024 , 08:37 AM  •  677 views
Trump's Pentagon pick raises eyebrows as Senate prepares for key meetings

Trump's Pentagon pick raises eyebrows as Senate prepares for key meetings

A former tv-host Pete Hegseth needs Senate approval to lead Department of Defense. His non-traditional background and recent allegations create interesting dynamics for upcoming review

Society, Politics • December 3 2024 , 08:44 PM  •  694 views
Wealthy defense investor gets surprising top Pentagon job offer from Trump

Wealthy defense investor gets surprising top Pentagon job offer from Trump

A confidential report shows Trump picked billionaire **Stephen Feinberg** for key defense role. The choice raises questions due to Feinbergs connections with military contractors

Business, Politics • December 3 2024 , 05:32 PM  •  778 views
US readies new weapon package for Ukraine with special missile systems

US readies new weapon package for Ukraine with special missile systems

Pentagon plans to boost Ukraineʼs defense with a $725M military aid package. The delivery includes advanced counter-drone tech and special rocket system ammo for long-range strikes

Politics • December 2 2024 , 05:44 PM  •  992 views
China objects to new US military deal with Taiwan and presidential visit plans

China objects to new US military deal with Taiwan and presidential visit plans

US approved $385M military parts sale to Taiwan right before its presidents Pacific trip through American territory. China responded with strong objections to both the deal and travel arrangements

Economics, Politics • December 2 2024 , 01:17 PM  •  121 views
US gives green light to massive Taiwan defense deal as president starts Pacific tour

US gives green light to massive Taiwan defense deal as president starts Pacific tour

Pentagon confirms new multi-million defense package for Taiwan including F-16 fighter jet parts and radar systems. Deal comes as Taiwanʼs president begins Pacific island-hopping journey through US territories

Economics, Politics • November 30 2024 , 08:53 AM  •  2535 views
From Mao to modern America: History shows dangerous signs of repeating

From Mao to modern America: History shows dangerous signs of repeating

A look at how Chinaʼs Cultural Revolution events from late 60s mirror todays political shifts in America. Historical patterns suggest concerning similarities between two different eras and systems

Politics, Culture • November 27 2024 , 12:07 PM  •  2040 views
Pentagon's military study faces questions after major flaws discovered

Pentagon's military study faces questions after major flaws discovered

Associated Press found issues in Pentagon-backed research about military extremism. The study used outdated info and questionable methods while missing key evidence that could change its findings

Society, Politics • November 26 2024 , 09:15 PM  •  1038 views
Fox host uses new Pentagon study to address military personnel behavior patterns

Fox host uses new Pentagon study to address military personnel behavior patterns

Fox News commentator discusses recent Pentagon-backed research about service members behavior patterns. Study compares military personnel statistics with general population data

Society, Politics • November 26 2024 , 08:50 PM  •  997 views
Mysterious drones spotted at US military bases across England - officials respond

Mysterious drones spotted at US military bases across England - officials respond

Multiple un-identified drones were seen flying over three US Air Force bases in England during the past week. British and US officials are working together to find out whoʼs behind these strange fly-overs

Politics • November 26 2024 , 07:52 PM  •  1089 views
Senator stops key military promotion linked to historic Afghanistan departure

Senator stops key military promotion linked to historic Afghanistan departure

A high-ranking Army officerʼs career advancement hits unexpected roadblock in Senate. The promotion delay connects to his role during Americaʼs final military operations in Afghanistan

Society, Politics • November 25 2024 , 11:10 PM  •  1143 views
Former congressman steps down from top justice role race, Trump picks new candidate

Former congressman steps down from top justice role race, Trump picks new candidate

A high-profile nomination for Attorney General position ends with unexpected withdrawal. Quick replacement announced as former state-level official steps into consideration for key justice role

Society, Politics • November 22 2024 , 11:51 AM  •  5105 views
Former Fox host's past surfaces as Pentagon nomination moves forward

Former Fox host's past surfaces as Pentagon nomination moves forward

Seven-year-old police report about **Pete Hegseth** emerges after his nomination for Defense Secretary. California authorities didnt press charges in the case which involved hotel conference incident

Society, Politics • November 22 2024 , 03:37 AM  •  2904 views