Who was the principal architect of the U.S. Capitol building?

The principal architect of the U.S. Capitol building was William Thornton. He was selected for this role after winning a design competition in 1792. Thornton's design incorporated elements of neoclassical architecture, aiming to embody the ideals of democracy and represent the nation’s aspirations in its architectural grandeur. His vision and craftsmanship played a vital role in setting the architectural tone for the Capitol, which has since become a symbol of the legislative branch of the U.S. government.

While Thomas Jefferson significantly influenced early American architecture and had a hand in the design of other governmental buildings, such as the Virginia State Capitol, he was not the architect of the U.S. Capitol itself. Benjamin Latrobe, another notable architect, contributed to the Capitol’s design and construction, particularly after Thornton’s original work, while James Hoban is best known for the design of the White House, not the Capitol. William Thornton's distinct contribution and recognition as the principal architect firmly establish his significance in the history of American architecture.