Our Capital: Washington, D.C. Every country has a capital. This is where the government makes important decisions, such as laws. It is also where the President lives and Congress meets. The Supreme Court judges work here too. The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. It is named after George Washington, who was the first President of the United States, and Christopher Columbus, a famous explorer. Washington, D.C. is located on the east coast and is surrounded by the states of Maryland and Virginia on the Potomac River. It is America's first planned city and was designed by Pierre L'Enfant.
Washington D.C. was not always the capital of the United States. Both New York City and Philadelphia were once the capital, but in the year 1800, Washington, D.C., became the official capital.
Last updated: December 1, 1999 |
