What Were The 24 Largest Cities In 1790?

In 1790, the United States had five major cities that stood out both in terms of population and significance. These cities were located in various regions of the country, each with its unique characteristics and contributions. Here’s a list of the nation’s five largest cities in 1790, along with some additional context:

1. New York, New York: The largest city in the United States at the time, New York served as a bustling hub for trade and commerce. Located in the northeastern part of the country, it was a melting pot of diverse cultures and a key player in the emerging nation’s economic growth.

2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: As the nation’s capital from 1790 to 1800, Philadelphia held significant political importance. It was also a center for culture, education, and science, with institutions like the American Philosophical Society and the University of Pennsylvania.

3. Boston, Massachusetts: Boston, situated in the New England region, had a rich history and played a vital role in the American Revolution. It was known for its intellectual and cultural contributions, as well as its active involvement in shaping the nation’s early politics.

4. Charleston, South Carolina: Charleston, located in the southern part of the country, was a major port city. Its economy was driven by agriculture, particularly rice and indigo cultivation, and it had a distinct Southern culture that influenced the broader American identity.

5. Baltimore, Maryland: Baltimore, a growing city in the mid-Atlantic region, was strategically positioned along the Chesapeake Bay. It was emerging as an important port and industrial center, setting the stage for its future prominence in trade and transportation.

These five cities, spread across the young nation, represented the diversity and potential of the United States in its early years.

In 1790, Virginia held the distinction of having the largest population among all states, as indicated by historical census records. This demographic dominance persisted into the year 1800, where Virginia continued to maintain its status as the most populous state. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania occupied the position of the second-largest state by population in 1800, with New York following closely behind as the third-most populous state during the same time period. Therefore, not only did Virginia have the largest population in 1790, but it also retained its leading position in 1800, while Pennsylvania and New York secured the second and third spots in terms of population size, respectively.

The list provided ranks the top 50 most populous cities in the United States. The 11th largest city in America is Austin, located in the state of Texas, with a population of approximately 932,000 people. Austin is known for its vibrant culture, tech industry presence, and beautiful natural surroundings. It is an integral part of Texas and contributes significantly to the state’s economy and cultural diversity.