If all the state capital cities in the USA were listed in alphabetical order, what would be first two?

When all fifty state capital cities in the United States are arranged alphabetically, the first two are Albany and Annapolis. Albany, the capital of New York, just precedes Annapolis, the capital of Maryland. This alphabetical distinction highlights two cities with deep roots in American history, both established as colonial capitals long before the formation of the United States.

Albany became the official capital of New York in 1797. Situated on the Hudson River, its location was a strategic advantage for trade and military logistics during the Revolutionary War. The city was originally settled by the Dutch as Beverwijck in the early 17th century before the English renamed it to honor the Duke of Albany. This makes Albany one of the oldest continuously chartered cities in the country.

Annapolis also boasts a rich colonial history and significant role in the nation's founding. For a brief period from 1783 to 1784, Annapolis served as the capital of the United States. It was within the historic Maryland State House, the oldest state house still in continuous legislative use, that the Treaty of Paris was ratified, officially ending the Revolutionary War. This is also where General George Washington famously resigned his commission from the Continental Army.