28 Facts About Pentagon

Source: Britannica.com

Ever wondered why the Pentagon is called the Pentagon? This iconic building, home to the U.S. Department of Defense, isn't just a marvel of architecture; it's a hub of history, secrets, and fascinating facts. Built during World War II, it stands as a symbol of American military power. But there's more to it than meets the eye. Did you know it has five sides, five floors, and five ring corridors per floor? Or that it was constructed in just 16 months? From its unique shape to its massive size, the Pentagon holds many intriguing stories. Let's dive into 28 facts that will make you see this landmark in a whole new light.

Key Takeaways:

The Pentagon is a massive and unique building with a rich history, serving as a symbol of strength and resilience for the United States.
Despite being a target of tragedy, the Pentagon stands as a testament to American perseverance and continues to play a crucial role in military operations.

Table of Contents

The Pentagon: A Marvel of Architecture

The Pentagon, headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, is an architectural wonder. Its unique shape and immense size make it one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Here are some intriguing facts about this iconic structure.

01
The Pentagon was completed in just 16 months, a remarkable feat considering its size and complexity.
02
It covers 29 acres, making it one of the largest office buildings globally.
03
The building has five sides, five floors above ground, and two basement levels.
04
Each side of the Pentagon is 921 feet long.
05
The total floor area of the Pentagon is about 6.5 million square feet.

Historical Significance of the Pentagon

The Pentagon isn't just an architectural marvel; it also holds significant historical importance. Let's delve into some facts about its history.

06
Construction began on September 11, 1941, exactly 60 years before the 9/11 attacks.
07
It was designed by American architect George Bergstrom.
08
The Pentagon was built to consolidate the offices of the War Department, which were scattered across Washington, D.C.
09
During World War II, the Pentagon was the epicenter of military planning and operations.
10
It was officially dedicated on January 15, 1943.

The Pentagon's Unique Design

The Pentagon's design is not just about aesthetics; it also serves practical purposes. Here are some fascinating design facts.

11
The five-sided design was chosen to fit a specific plot of land, but the location was later changed.
12
The central courtyard is nicknamed "Ground Zero" because it was thought to be a prime target during the Cold War.
13
The building's shape allows for efficient movement; it takes only seven minutes to walk between any two points.
14
The Pentagon has 17.5 miles of corridors.
15
The building was constructed with reinforced concrete to withstand potential attacks.

The Pentagon and 9/11

The Pentagon was one of the targets during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Here are some facts related to that day.

16
American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the western side of the Pentagon.
17
The impact killed 125 people in the building and 59 passengers on the plane.
18
The section hit by the plane had recently been renovated to improve security, which helped prevent further casualties.
19
The Pentagon Memorial was dedicated on September 11, 2008, to honor the victims.
20
The memorial features 184 illuminated benches, each representing a life lost.

The Pentagon in Popular Culture

The Pentagon has made numerous appearances in movies, TV shows, and books. Here are some fun facts about its presence in popular culture.

21
The Pentagon has been featured in films like "Transformers," "Independence Day," and "The X-Files."
22
It is often depicted as a symbol of military power and strategic planning.
23
The building has appeared in numerous novels, including Tom Clancy's "The Hunt for Red October."
24
The Pentagon is frequently referenced in TV shows like "24" and "NCIS."
25
It has become a cultural icon, representing the strength and resilience of the United States.

Miscellaneous Facts about the Pentagon

There are many other interesting tidbits about the Pentagon that don't fit neatly into other categories. Here are a few more facts.

26
The Pentagon has its own subway station, making it easily accessible.
27
It has a shopping mall, complete with a food court and various retail stores.
28
The building employs around 23,000 military and civilian personnel.

The Pentagon's Fascinating Details

The Pentagon isn't just a building; it's a symbol of military might and architectural brilliance. From its five-sided design to its massive size, the Pentagon stands out in many ways. It houses thousands of employees and has a unique history that includes being built in just 16 months during World War II. The central courtyard is a peaceful spot amidst the hustle and bustle, and the building's security measures are top-notch.

Whether you're interested in its construction, its role in national defense, or its cultural significance, the Pentagon offers a wealth of intriguing facts. Next time you think about this iconic structure, remember it's more than just an office building; it's a testament to American resilience and ingenuity.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat exactly is the Pentagon?

Often referred to as the world's largest office building, the Pentagon serves as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Located in Arlington, Virginia, this iconic structure boasts five sides, five floors above ground, and two basement levels. It's where military strategies are devised and critical defense decisions are made.

QHow many people work at the Pentagon?

Believe it or not, about 23,000 military and civilian employees call the Pentagon their workplace. This bustling hub of activity includes a mix of armed forces personnel, defense contractors, and support staff, all working together under one massive roof.

QCan you visit the Pentagon?

Yes, you can! Public tours are available, but they require reservations made through the Pentagon's official website. These guided tours offer a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Department of Defense, showcasing various points of interest within the building.

QWhen was the Pentagon built?

Construction of the Pentagon began on September 11, 1941, and remarkably, it was completed in just under two years. This feat was especially impressive considering the building's massive size and the ongoing demands of World War II.

QWhy does the Pentagon have five sides?

The Pentagon's unique shape was initially chosen to fit the plot of land where it was built, which was bordered on five sides. Although the original site changed, the distinctive pentagonal design remained, becoming a symbol of military strength and efficiency.

QWhat's inside the Pentagon?

Inside, you'll find a maze of corridors, offices, cafeterias, and even a shopping mall. There's also the Pentagon Memorial, dedicated to the victims of the September 11 attacks, and the Hall of Heroes, honoring recipients of the Medal of Honor.

QHas the Pentagon ever been attacked?

Yes, on September 11, 2001, during a series of coordinated terrorist attacks, American Airlines Flight 77 was hijacked and crashed into the Pentagon's western side. This tragic event led to the deaths of 184 people and significant damage to the building.

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