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. It was established as the nation's capital in 1790 and is home to many significant government institutions, including the White House, the Capitol building, and the Supreme Court. The choice of Washington, D.C. as the capital was strategic, symbolizing a compromise between the northern and southern states during its founding.

Other cities, such as New York City and Chicago, have played essential roles in U.S. history and served as temporary capitals, but they do not hold the current status of the nation's capital. Los Angeles, while being the largest city in California and a major cultural hub, is not the capital of the United States, and thus does not fulfill this role. This understanding of Washington, D.C.'s significance is crucial for grasping the structure and history of the U.S. government.