The Evolution of the United States' Capitals: Beyond Washington D.C.

The site of the District of Columbia was chosen as a result of the Compromise of 1790, a deal made between Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison over dinner. This Compromise allowed the federal government to assume state debts in exchange for the southern states approving the location of the national capital. Maryland and Virginia ceded the land for the capital's construction, with Virginia reclaiming its portion in 1850 due to various reasons including the decline of Alexandria and regional concerns about the future of slavery in the District of Columbia.

The United States has had eight historical capitals before Washington D.C., each playing a crucial role in the nation's growth and development. These capitals, from Philadelphia to New York City, reflect the various challenges and transformations that the young nation faced during its early years.

The Early Capitals

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania served as the home of the Continental Congress and the temporary capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. During the Revolutionary War, when British troops approached Philadelphia, the Continental Congress fled to Baltimore, acting as Congress' haven until the British retreated. In late 1777, fearing another British advance, delegates moved to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, continuing their meetings there until the British left Philadelphia in 1778. Following this, they moved to York, Pennsylvania until the British retreated.

In 1783, Congress temporarily moved to Princeton, New Jersey to escape the demands of Continental soldiers for their back pay. Congress then held meetings in Annapolis, Maryland in 1785, where George Washington resigned as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army on December 23, 1783. Later that year, Congress moved to Trenton, New Jersey until their old City Hall in New York City, located on Wall Street, was remodeled for the new national government. Here, Washington took his oath of office in 1789.

Why It Matters

Historically, the nation's capitals have been the locations where major decisions are made for the nation's future. The movement of these capitals throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries reflects the challenges and changes the young United States faced. Philadelphia's prominence as the Declaration of Independence's signing site, Baltimore's safe haven during the war, and Trenton's temporary home highlight the dynamic nature of the early American government.

These capitals not only provide insight into the historical context of the United States but also offer a glimpse into the evolution of the nation's governance structure. Understanding the historical capitals helps us appreciate the journey that led to the establishment of Washington D.C. as the permanent capital of the United States in 1800.

Conclusion

The journey of the United States' capitals is a fascinating reflection of the nation's early history. From the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia to the establishment of Washington D.C., each capital played a crucial role in shaping the young nation. Exploring these historical capitals allows us to delve deeper into the complex and dynamic history of the United States.