Why Washington, D.C. Became the U.S. Capital

Selected in 1790 for four key reasons:

1. Potomac River control: Vital transport route linking North and South.
2. Geographic compromise: Mid-Atlantic location balanced Northern/Southern interests.
3. George Washington's influence: Donated land, championed development.
4. Pierre Charles L'Enfant's plan: Visionary design (streets, monuments) symbolized national grandeur.

The result: a purpose-built capital embodying unity and republican ideals.