Leaders Create a Federal Capital
Leaders Create a Federal Capital is a Grade 5 history skill from California myWorld Interactive, Chapter 7: Life in the Young Republic. Students learn how the famous 1790 deal between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson resolved the conflict over where to place the nation's capital, resulting in Washington, D.C. being built in the South in a special federal district so no single state would have too much influence.
Key Concepts
Early American leaders argued about where to build the nation's capital. Northern and Southern states each wanted the capital located in their region. This disagreement was part of the growing conflict between the new political parties.
To solve the problem, Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson made a famous deal in 1790.
Common Questions
How was Washington D.C. chosen as the nation's capital?
In 1790, Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson made a deal. Jefferson agreed to Hamilton's economic plan, and in return the new capital would be built in the South, on land between Virginia and Maryland.
Why was Washington D.C. placed in a special federal district?
Washington D.C. was placed in a federal district rather than within any existing state so that no single state could have too much influence over the national government.
What was the disagreement over the location of the capital?
Northern and Southern states each wanted the capital in their region, and this disagreement was tied to the growing conflict between the new political parties led by Hamilton and Jefferson.
What textbook covers creating the federal capital for Grade 5?
This topic is covered in California myWorld Interactive, Grade 5, Chapter 7: Life in the Young Republic.