What is the capital of the United States?

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. This city was established as the capital in 1800 and was specifically chosen due to its central location along the East Coast, providing a neutral ground for both Northern and Southern states. Washington, D.C. serves as the seat of the federal government, housing important government buildings such as the White House, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court. It is a planned city that reflects the ideology of democracy and is integral to the nation's identity.

Other cities listed, like New York and Los Angeles, are major urban centers but do not serve as the capital. New York City was the first capital of the United States under the Articles of Confederation, but it was not chosen as the permanent capital. Chicago, while a significant city in the Midwest, is also not the capital and does not hold the same federal significance as Washington, D.C.