What is the capital of the United States?

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and serves as the seat of the federal government. This city was established as the capital in the late 18th century, specifically chosen for its location along the Potomac River between the northern and southern states. It is home to the three branches of government: the Executive (the White House), the Legislative (the Capitol building), and the Judicial (the Supreme Court).

Additionally, as the capital, Washington, D.C. hosts numerous national monuments and museums, many of which are part of the National Mall, making it a significant center for national history and culture. This makes it distinct from other major U.S. cities. New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, while influential and historically important in their own right, do not hold the designation of the capital; they serve different roles in the economic and cultural landscape of the country.