Former United States capitals
Baltimore, Maryland
The city's location was considered safer, as it was further from British-occupied New York and Philadelphia, making it a strategic choice in a turbulent time.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
The city's brief tenure as the capital was necessary for the safety of Congress members.
York, Pennsylvania
Today, York proudly commemorates its role in shaping the young nation's government.
Princeton, New Jersey
Nassau Hall at Princeton University became the temporary meeting place for Congress. During its short stay, Congress received news of the Treaty of Paris negotiations, which would officially end the war.
Annapolis, Maryland
The Maryland State House, where these events took place, remains the oldest continuously used state capitol.
