In 1800, Washington, D.C., became the last and final home of the U.S. government. It seemed like a better fit for the nation’s capital than either New York or Philadelphia. Why? There were many reasons.

Discover what made Washington D.C., a good site for a capital by examining a portrait of the Washington Family. Or, see how the city has changed — and stayed the same — over the past 200 years!

Look closely at the Washington Family Portrait. Explore why Washington, D.C., was picked as the nation’s capital. Learn how the city was designed and built.		Predict how important Washington, D.C., sites have changed during the past 200 years. Test yourself!

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