The Path of Washington D.C. as the U.S. Capital: History and Future

Washington D.C. has not always been the capital of the United States, and this historical context is crucial to understanding the city's current significance and its potential future. This article explores the historical journey of Washington D.C., the reasons behind its selection as the capital, and speculates on its future as a national capital.

The Early Days

Before the completion of the major buildings around 1800, Washington D.C. was not the capital of the U.S. George Washington's first inauguration took place in New York, and Independence Hall in Philadelphia served as a temporary capital. John Adams, the second president, was the first to live in the White House, which was nearly complete by 1800.

Philadelphia and New York as the Early Capitals

The journey to establishing Washington D.C. as the capital was not straightforward. Both Philadelphia and New York served as temporary capitals. Philadelphia was known as the First National Capital (1774-1783) during the Second Continental Congress and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence. New York, the Second National Capital (1785-1800), hosted the First Congress and George Washington's inauguration as the first President of the United States.

The Complicated Decision

The choice of Washington D.C. as the capital came with a series of compromises. The city was named after George Washington, but its location was not chosen by any one state. Instead, it was designated as a neutral location to appease both northern and southern states. These compromises included counting 3/5 of the slaves for the purpose of determining the Congressional delegations, which helped maintain a balance and allay southern fears of a capital far from them.

The Southerners' Conception of a Separate Capital

During the Civil War, the southern slave-owning states attempted to secede from the Union and established their own capital. However, they did not plan to conquer and annex Washington D.C. as their own capital, as evidenced by their war plans not including an attack on the city. After the war, the significance of Washington D.C. as a central location emerged more firmly.

Other Informal Capitals

Operatively, Washington D.C. is not the only U.S. capital that holds significance. New York City is often referred to as the financial capital, while Los Angeles is considered the entertainment capital. However, the larger question is whether there will always be a United States and a central capital city for it.

Challenges to the United States' Unity

The rise of secession movements and the potential division of the U.S. into smaller states raises the question of Washington D.C.'s future. Countries like the USSR, Yugoslavia, and Czechoslovakia have experienced the division of their capitals. Similarly, there is no reason to assume that the U.S. cannot face a similar fate. If the U.S. were to split into two or more states, each might establish its own capital city, a scenario not that far-fetched in historical contexts.

In conclusion, the path of Washington D.C. as the U.S. capital is a fascinating blend of historical compromise and strategic vision. Its future may be uncertain, but its central role in American politics and national identity remains unchallenged.