Montgomery Became Alabama's Capital in 1846—Not the First Choice

Montgomery was not Alabama's first capital. The sequence:

1. St. Stephens (1817–1819)
2. Cahaba (1819–1826)
3. Tuscaloosa (1826–1846)
4. Montgomery (1846–present)

Montgomery was chosen for its central location, river access (Alabama River), and growing railroad connections—making it a practical, permanent seat of government.