What is the capital of the United States?

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. This designation is significant because Washington, D.C. was specifically established as the nation's capital and is home to the federal government, including the President, Congress, and the Supreme Court. It was chosen as the capital following a compromise in the early years of the republic, symbolizing a central location that could represent the diverse interests of the various states.

In contrast, other cities listed, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, while being major urban centers in America, do not hold the status of the national capital. New York was the first capital of the United States under the Articles of Confederation, but the capital was moved to Philadelphia and then ultimately to Washington, D.C., which was designed for this purpose. Understanding the historical context of why Washington, D.C. was selected is crucial to grasping its role in American national government.