Focus

This lesson builds on the themes of sectionalism and compromise that were developed while learning about the Constitutional Convention. Washington, D.C. was not a foregone choice for a national capital; rather, it was the result of a mixture of geographic, economic and political factors.

Vital Theme and Narrative

Values, beliefs, political ideas and institutions.

Habit of Mind

Perceive past events and issues as they were experienced by people at the time, to develop historical empathy as opposed to present-mindedness.

Objectives

1. Locate Washington, D.C. and the Potomac River on a map.
2. Summarize the main points of the compromise between Jefferson and Hamilton that led to the decision to make Washington the national capital.
3. Evaluate the choice of the Potomac River site for the nation's capital.

Procedure

Introduction:

• Ask students to name the US capital and explain why it is located there.
• Locate Washington, D.C. and the Potomac River on a map of the US.
• Review sectionalism and compromise theme.

Activity:

• Have students skim first part of textbook passage on choosing a national capital.
• Make two columns on chalkboard or overhead: North Wanted and South Wanted.
• Ask students to predict how the issue will be resolved, then finish the passage.
• List reasons for the Potomac River site (with geographic, economic and political as prompts). Refer to Jefferson-Hamilton compromise.

Assessment:

Respond to the following writing prompt:

If you were a member of Congress in 1790, would you have voted for or against the decision to locate the capital on the Potomac River? Write a one-page letter to your constituents explaining where the capital will be located, the main points of the compromise and the reasons for your vote. In your letter, identify the state you represent.