The term "U.S. Capital" typically refers to Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States. Established in 1790, it serves as the political center of the country, housing the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Supreme Court. The city was chosen for its strategic location along the Potomac River, between the northern and southern states. Washington, D.C. is not only the seat of the federal government but also a cultural hub, featuring numerous museums, monuments, and memorials. It is home to important institutions like the Library of Congress and the National Archives, which preserve the nation's history and documents.