What is the capital of the United States?

Washington, D.C., is the capital of the United States for several reasons grounded in history and government structure. Established as the capital in 1800, it was specifically chosen as a compromise location between the northern and southern states, reflecting the nation's desire for a neutral ground for the federal government. The city was designed to be the seat of the federal government, housing key government institutions such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Supreme Court.

The founding fathers designed Washington, D.C., to be distinct from the existing states, allowing for a federal district that would not belong to any one state, ensuring a neutral heart for the nation’s governance. This decision underscores the importance of Washington, D.C., in the context of American history and its role in the functioning of the federal government.