What is the capital of the United States?

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. This city was specifically chosen as the nation's capital due to its strategic location along the Potomac River. Established as the capital in 1800, Washington, D.C. serves as the seat of the federal government, housing key institutions like the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Supreme Court. The choice of a separate district as the capital, distinct from any state, was a compromise to ensure that no single state would have undue influence over the federal government. The other cities mentioned, while significant in their own right, are not the capital; New York City and Los Angeles are major economic and cultural centers, and Chicago is known for its history and influence in the Midwest, but none serve as the administrative center for the country.