Calling the Potomac River an important water artery of the United States, do not exaggerate. After all, Washington rises above its northern coast, the main city of a huge state, its majestic capital. Washington occupied both banks of the waterway in its lower reaches. Small ships rise to the city along the river water surface.
The river itself, including the South Potomac and the estuary, stretches across the eastern expanses of North America for 780 kilometers. The picturesque Potomac River in Washington has a basin of 38.1 thousand km². In the ranking of the Atlantic rivers in terms of the size of the basin, it received fourth place. And according to the statistics of all rivers in the United States, she was given only 21st place.
Geography of the Potomac
In the state of Maryland, near the town of Cumberland, the North and South Potomacs merge into a single water stream. As a result of this confluence, the Potomac River, the main artery of Washington, was formed. The source of the north arm is in West Virginia, near the Fairfax Stone. The course of this branch is directed to the northeast. The southern branch begins near the village of Hightown, inVirginia. It also flows in a northeasterly direction.
After the confluence of the branches, the Potomac River, the photo of which is excellent, is heading southeast. It flows in this direction until it flows into the Chesapeake Bay, which is part of the Atlantic. The Potomac serves as the border between Maryland and Virginia. This waterway is navigable. Ships ply it between the Great Falls and the mouth.
Historical facts
Potomac was the name of an Indian tribe that chose the south coast of the river for shelter. It is believed that the word potomac is translated as "trading place" or "place of tribute." The Indians had their own name for the river, they called it Cohongarooton. Translated, it sounds like “goose river.”
In 1570, the Potomac River was discovered by the Spaniards. The description of the watershed was first made in 1608 by Captain John Smith. He put it on the map. Then merchants living in Virginia flocked here. With the founding of Maryland, the Potomac becomes a key transportation artery for the colony.
When the Civil War broke out, the stream became the frontier for the Southern Confederacy. General Robert Lee managed to cross the waterway twice, invading the northern lands.
The Potomac River (North America) was formed about two million years ago as a result of lowering the level of the Atlantic Ocean and protruding coastal sediments. The water artery was formed in the Great Falls region, the original relief of which was destroyed by glaciers.
In the Potomac region, manycultures. Here, the traditions of miners, boatmen and city dwellers from West and Northern Virginia are closely intertwined.
Great Falls
Several millennia ago, the Great Falls formed on the river. For the past two centuries, they have been considered the main natural attraction in Washington. Since ancient times, the Great Falls have been called the vast territory bordering the capital of the United States of America.
If we consider the administrative affiliation of the waterfalls, then they are the property of two neighboring states - Maryland and Virginia. They are located 22 kilometers from Washington. Get to them by taxi or subway.
An amazing miracle of nature amazes with the beauty and power of grandiose streams of crystal clear water. Even in the photo, the Great Falls amaze with their grandeur. The beautiful Potomac River (or rather, its coasts) is dotted with magnificent parks.
This picturesque area is popular with Americans and travelers. Adherents of outdoor activities flock here. Here, without surprise, you can meet fans of kayaking, rafting and rock climbing. They are dressed in comfortable and comfortable jeans, T-shirts and shoes.
Potomac is the heart of Washington
When calling Washington a majestic city, they remember that it was built on the Potomac River. This watershed is not just a waterway, it is the heart of Washington. The history of the metropolis is inextricably linked with the name of the water artery.
The Potomac River became the place where in 1751erected the port of Georgetown, which became a dynamic point of trade and commerce. The trade zone developed, deliveries and transportations increased in volumes. In 1790, Georgetown reached its peak, becoming the largest port of the state. Exported and sold batches of tobacco here, for example, significantly exceeded the turnover of this product in other ports.
Environmental Disaster
However, the Potomac had a chance to go through difficult periods. In 1894, the waters of the river were so polluted that the authorities imposed a ban on people swimming. Swimming in a dirty river could undermine the he alth of lovers of water procedures.
The stigma of environmental ills has long haunted the watershed. After a major cleanup of the waterway in 1970, the Potomac River began to acquire a positive reputation. North America, its environmentalists and volunteers have won the battle to keep the waters of an important artery clean.
The watershed came to life, as if born again. Purified waters sighed freely, letting in life streams. At present, the greatness of the saved river is undeniable. Canoes, kayaks and rowing boats glide across the water surface. Blue herons and eagles have returned here. And looking at this harmony, you begin to feel the soul of the river, called the heart of Washington.
Potomac: dynamic and peaceful
Architectural monuments rise above the coasts of the Potomac. They found a place for the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorial, the Kennedy Center and other attractions. Native Washingtonians also like the other face of the watershed. That hisa piece where the brilliance of glass and the brilliance of concrete ends and the realm of river banks opens, inhabited by light-winged birds and fish, shining with the gloss of scales. Here the dynamics of the metropolis comes to naught. Life seems to slow down, obeying the smooth flow of river waters.
Potomac Embankment
In the place where the Potomac River flows through the North American capital - the city of Washington, a picturesque embankment has been erected, beautiful promenades have been equipped. Along the edges of the promenade crowded with many excellent restaurants, recreation areas.
Bicycle paths meander along the coasts, colorful entrances to parks with excellent infrastructure have been built. The territory of the parks is equipped with barbecue areas and recreation areas. River buses, tourist boats and yachts glide along the water surface.
River cruises depart from here. The water area offers stunning views of the city. Trees, houses and high-rise buildings add up to a fantastic picture. Here they go jogging and sit in cafes, just admire the river landscapes.
Bridges are thrown across the water surface of the river. The bridge leading to the suburb of Arlington is adorned with gilded Roman-style statues. You can occasionally see the presidential helicopter in the sky.
