What is a forward capital and why do states relocate capitals? Provide an example.

• A. A capital moved to a more central or strategic location to promote development or governance; Example: Brasília, Brazil.
• B. A capital moved to a coastal place for trade; Example: Tokyo.
• C. A capital is always in the largest city.
• D. A capital remains in place due to historical ties.

Answer: (A)

A forward capital is a capital city that is moved to a new, often more central or strategically chosen location to promote development, improve governance, and symbolize a new direction for the country. Brasília serves as the clear example: Brazil moved the capital from the coastal Rio de Janeiro area to an inland, planned city in 1960 to spur interior development, balance regional growth, and bring government closer to more parts of the country. This differs from simply relocating to a coastal port for trade, or keeping the capital in the largest city or in place due to history. The idea is to use the capital’s location as a tool for national integration and development, not just to change where the government sits.