What was the capital of USA before Washington DC?
The capital of the United States of America has undergone a fascinating journey through history. Before the establishment of Washington, D.C., as the nation’s capital, there were several cities that served as the focal point of American governance. This article delves into the history of these cities and their roles in shaping the early political landscape of the United States.>
The first capital of the United States was New York City. After declaring independence from Great Britain in 1776, the Continental Congress, which was the governing body of the new nation, met in various locations, including Philadelphia and Baltimore. However, New York City was chosen as the temporary capital in 1785, mainly due to its strategic location on the Atlantic coast and its role as a major port.
During its tenure as the capital, New York City was home to several significant events in American history. In 1789, George Washington, the first President of the United States, was inaugurated in New York City. Additionally, the United States Constitution was adopted in 1787, and the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791. Despite these milestones, New York City’s status as the capital was short-lived.
The second capital of the United States was Philadelphia. In 1790, Congress passed the Residence Act, which designated Philadelphia as the permanent capital until a new capital city could be constructed. Philadelphia played a crucial role in the early years of the nation, hosting the Second Continental Congress, the Constitutional Convention, and the First Federal Congress.
Philadelphia’s tenure as the capital was marked by the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, the signing of the U.S. Constitution, and the ratification of the Bill of Rights. The city also witnessed the presidency of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. However, as the nation’s population grew and the need for a more centralized government became apparent, Philadelphia’s role as the capital began to diminish.
The third capital of the United States was Baltimore. After the construction of the new capital city was delayed, Congress met in Baltimore from 1793 to 1794. During this time, the city hosted the third session of the First Congress and the second session of the Second Congress. Although Baltimore’s time as the capital was brief, it was significant in the context of the nation’s early development.
Finally, in 1800, the capital was moved to Washington, D.C. The new city was chosen due to its central location and was designed by Pierre L’Enfant, a French engineer. Washington, D.C. became the permanent capital of the United States in 1801, with the move of the federal government from Philadelphia.
In conclusion, the capital of the United States has changed several times before Washington, D.C. was established as the permanent capital. New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore all played crucial roles in the nation’s early history, serving as temporary or interim capitals. The journey of the U.S. capital reflects the growth and development of the nation, as well as the evolving needs of its government.>
