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Before Washington, D.C., became the permanent US capital, several cities temporarily held the title. From the early days of the Continental Congress through the nation's formative years, the capital shifted due to war, security concerns, and political negotiations. Cities like Philadelphia, New York, and even Princeton played crucial roles in America's history.
Click on to explore the places that once served as the US capital.
Philadelphia played a crucial role in early American history, serving as the meeting place for the First and Second Continental Congresses. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.
During the Revolutionary War, the capital temporarily moved due to British occupation, but Philadelphia later resumed its role. From 1790 to 1800, it served as the capital while Washington, D.C., was being built.
Independence Hall and Congress Hall remain as historical landmarks from this period, highlighting the city’s importance in shaping the nation’s early government.
In late 1776, the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia to escape advancing British troops, temporarily relocating to Baltimore.
Though the stay was brief, Baltimore's role as the capital ensured the continuity of the fledgling government. During this time, Congress continued to manage the Revolutionary War effort.
The city's location was considered safer, as it was further from British-occupied New York and Philadelphia, making it a strategic choice in a turbulent time.
Lancaster holds the unique distinction of serving as the US capital for just one day. On September 27, 1777, the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia after the city fell to the British. They gathered in the Lancaster County Courthouse to continue governance before moving to a more secure location.
The city's brief tenure as the capital was necessary for the safety of Congress members.
Today, Lancaster recognizes its historic role, with local sites commemorating its momentary place in America's early government.
After leaving Lancaster, Congress settled in York, Pennsylvania, for nine months. This city was significant because it was here that the Articles of Confederation were drafted and adopted in 1777.
York also served as the temporary headquarters for Congress while General Washington’s army camped at Valley Forge.
Today, York proudly commemorates its role in shaping the young nation's government.
Princeton was the capital for four months in 1783 as Congress fled rebellious soldiers in Philadelphia demanding back pay for their Revolutionary War service.
Nassau Hall at Princeton University became the temporary meeting place for Congress. During its short stay, Congress received news of the Treaty of Paris negotiations, which would officially end the war.
Princeton's role as the capital underscored the instability of the early government and the challenges of establishing a permanent seat of power.
Annapolis became the capital for nearly a year after Congress left Princeton. It was here that George Washington resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in December 1783.
The city also hosted Congress when it ratified the Treaty of Paris in 1784, officially ending the Revolutionary War.
The Maryland State House, where these events took place, remains the oldest continuously used state capitol.
Trenton briefly served as the capital for about two months in late 1784. Congress convened at the French Arms Tavern, a modest meeting place for government discussions.
Trenton's role as the capital was short-lived due to logistical challenges, including inadequate accommodations and political disputes over a permanent capital location.
Today, Trenton's historical markers highlight its momentary significance in the nation’s early development.
New York City became the first official capital under the US Constitution. From 1785 to 1790, it was the political and administrative center of the young republic.
Congress met at Federal Hall, where George Washington took the oath of office as the first President in 1789.
As a commercial hub, the city was a practical capital, but political disputes led to a temporary move to Philadelphia before settling in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., became the permanent US capital in 1800. Designed by Pierre L'Enfant, the city was chosen as a compromise between northern and southern states.
It was built specifically to serve as the nation's capital, ensuring no single state had undue influence. The White House and US Capitol became symbols of the new republic.
Since then, Washington, D.C., has remained the political heart of the country, housing all three branches of government and numerous historic institutions.
Sources: (History) (Mental Floss)
Places that have served as the capital of the United States
The US capital moved several times before settling in its permanent location
LIFESTYLE History
Before Washington, D.C., became the permanent US capital, several cities temporarily held the title. From the early days of the Continental Congress through the nation's formative years, the capital shifted due to war, security concerns, and political negotiations. Cities like Philadelphia, New York, and even Princeton played crucial roles in America's history.
Click on to explore the places that once served as the US capital.