The Willard Hotel's political and social role

The Willard InterContinental Washington, a historic hotel near the White House, has hosted presidents, foreign dignitaries, and political gatherings since the 19th century. The hotel has been associated with numerous social and political meetings and civic events that are part of Washington’s public life. The oft-repeated claim that the modern term 'lobbyist' originated from political advocates waiting in the Willard’s lobby is debated by historians and is not conclusively established.