

The city was founded in 1812 at the confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers. It is named for explorer Christopher Columbus. The city has expanded and annexed portions of adjoining Delaware County and Fairfield County. It is the county seat of Franklin County. Ĭolumbus is the third largest city in the American Midwest, and the fifteenth largest city in the United States of America. The Ohio State Buckeyes and Columbus Blue Jackets play there. John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Rickenbacker International AirportĬolumbus is the capital city and largest city of the U.S. Furthermore, Columbus is a city rich in history, diversity, culture, and social activities. Unlike other capitals in the United States, the city is the most populous among other cities in the state. The city maintains this reputation to date.

Traditionally, the city has remained the center of high learning and industry. The city's location is in the center therefore, it’s also accessible from many parts of the state. Columbus is ideal as the preferred location of Ohio’s government for several reasons. This also applies to Cincinnati, which is positioned in the southwest corner of Ohio. Why Columbus Rather Than Cleveland is the Ohio capitalĪlthough Cleveland is more popular than Columbus today, it has never been considered to take over as Ohio Capital. The emphasis on higher learning also facilitated the establishment of libraries and other institutions such as musical societies and art schools. For instance, schools such as Capital University and Ohio State University were established. As a result, there was a massive establishment of factories, including farm machinery and tools, shoes, and cigars.īesides factories, the city also enticed the attention of institutions of higher education. The city started functioning as the capital of Ohio in 1816.īased on its central position in the state, the city attracted various industries in the subsequent years.

There was massive construction of churches, schools, and government offices. After its establishment, the city witnessed rapid growth.

Thus, Columbus city was established on 14th February 1812 and named in Christopher Columbus's honor. Since this repetitive shifting of the capital was not sustainable, prominent political leaders in Ohio decided to settle in a permanent official location.Īlthough many cities were considered, leaders decided to develop a new city in the state's center, close to main rivers and transportation routes. However, due to the political infighting witnessed in those early times of statehood, Ohio's capital shifted from Chillicothe to Zanesville, and this shifting became repetitive. Based on its population, the city is the biggest metropolitan area in Ohio. Columbus is the central city of the Columbus, Ohio Metropolitan Statistical Area, which incorporates ten counties. It is also the county seat of Franklin County and extends to Fairfield and Delaware counties. The city is the 14th most populous city in the United States. Columbus is the most populous city and the capital of Ohio.
