The land where the Pentagon now stands was once occupied by a thriving Black American community called "Queen City," located in Arlington, Virginia; when construction began on the Pentagon during World War II, the entire neighborhood was forcibly displaced to make way for the military building, effectively erasing this Black community from the area.
Key points about the "Queen City" story:

Community impact:
Queen City was a tight-knit Black neighborhood with homes, businesses, and churches, which were all demolished to build the Pentagon.

Forced displacement:
Residents received short notice to vacate their properties, with many facing challenges finding new housing.

Historical context:
The displacement occurred during World War II when the government prioritized rapid construction of the Pentagon due to military urgency.

Further details:

Name origin:
"Queen City" was likely a reference to the Mount Olive Baptist Church, a central gathering point for the community.

Legacy and remembrance:
Today, artists and historians are working to highlight the story of Queen City, ensuring the lost community is not forgotten.