Manassas, city, northeastern Virginia; incorporated as a town 1873 and as a city 1975. It is the seat of Prince William County, but is administratively independent of the county. The city is a residential center in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, with some light industry. The Manassas Museum is here. During the American Civil War Manassas was an important rail junction. The two battles of Bull Run, both won by Confederate forces, were fought nearby, in July 1861 and August 1862. The battle site is part of Manassas National Battlefield Park. The city's name is thought to be of Native American origin. Population 15,438 (1980); 27,957 (1990); 35,336 (1998 estimate).
