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Iowa City, Iowa

Located in Johnson County, Iowa, Iowa City was established in 1839. Iowa Writers' Workshop is the most prestigious creative writing program in America. Iowa City is a UNESCO City of Literature — one of few in the world.
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Founded 1839 | Population 74,000 | Peak 74,000 (2024) | County Johnson County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Iowa City, Iowa

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1839Territorial Capital: Original Iowa capital.
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1847University of Iowa: UI established.
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1942Military Presence: Military installations became a major part of Iowa City's identity and economy.
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2008UNESCO City of Literature: Third city worldwide.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1839 Government
Territorial Capital
1847 Culture
University of Iowa
1942 Government
Military Presence
2008 Culture
UNESCO City of Literature

Did You Know?

1
Iowa Writers' Workshop is the most prestigious creative writing program in America.
2
Iowa City is a UNESCO City of Literature — one of few in the world.
3
Was Iowa's original territorial and state capital.
4
Iowa City is located in Johnson County, Iowa.
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Iowa City was founded in 1839.

Famous People from Iowa City, Iowa

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Nate Ruess
Composer, Singer · Born Feb 26, 1982 · Age 43
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Laura Leighton
Actor, Television Actor · Born Jul 24, 1968 · Age 57
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Allan Sandage
Astronomer, Astrophysicist · Born Jun 18, 1926 · Died Nov 13, 2010 (age 84)
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Hill Harper
Actor, Politician · Born May 17, 1966 · Age 59
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Phil Morris
Screenwriter, Actor · Born Apr 4, 1959 · Age 66
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