The City of Brotherly Love (and Lawmakers): How Long Was Philadelphia the Capital?
Ah, Philadelphia. City of cheesesteaks, Rocky Balboa, and apparently, a revolving door for the early United States government. But for how long did Philly hold the prestigious title of capital? Buckle up, history buffs (and hungry for cheesesteaks folks), because we're about to take a whirlwind tour of those glorious, sometimes chaotic, capital years.
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| How Many Years Was Philadelphia The Capital |
A Capital City...Kind Of
Let's be honest, Philadelphia wasn't exactly the first choice for capital. It was more like the cool older sibling's friend you hung out with until your own place was ready. The city served as the seat of government for the Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War, but that was a bit of a "we're fighting a war, gotta meet somewhere" situation.
Philly's Decade in the Spotlight (Well, Technically Ten Years)
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
Here's the juicy part: Philadelphia officially held the capital title for ten years, from 1790 to 1800. Why ten years? Well, there was a whole thing about appeasing northern and southern states (think "political compromise," but with less compromise and more horse-trading). Philadelphia was a centrally-located compromise, while a brand new capital was being designed and built down south (cue the dramatic music for Washington D.C.'s grand entrance).
Fun Fact: Not Everyone Was Cheesesteak-ing and Lovin' It
Being capital wasn't all sunshine and liberty bells. There were some downsides, like a nasty yellow fever outbreak that had folks sweating more than after a cheesesteak eating contest. Plus, some politicians (especially those from the south) felt a little too close to the hustle and bustle of a big city. They yearned for a more, well, presidential atmosphere.
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
So, Long Story Short...
Philadelphia's capital reign may have been temporary, but it was a significant decade in American history. The city played a crucial role in the early years of the republic, and hey, they probably had some pretty epic Founding Father barbecues (although with less hot dogs and more...mutton, perhaps?).
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How-To FAQs:
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to impress your friends with your Philadelphia capital knowledge?
Drop the fact that Philadelphia was the capital for ten years while they were busy oohing and aahing over the Liberty Bell.
How to avoid a cheesesteak hangover?
Pat yourself on the back for asking this important question. Hydrate beforehand, and maybe share one with a friend.
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
How to relive the glory days of Philadelphia's capital era?
Visit Independence Hall and pretend you're signing the Declaration of Independence (although security might frown upon that).
How to deal with someone who thinks Philly cheesesteaks are overrated?
There's no answer for this one. Run away.
How to learn more about Philadelphia's fascinating history?
Hit the history books, or you know, keep reading awesome articles like this one!
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