Springfield became Illinois’s capital in 1839 after the legislature moved the seat of government from Vandalia.
The settlement was originally known as Calhoun, but it was renamed Springfield in 1832. Its location near the center of the young state helped it compete successfully for the capital. Local leaders, including Abraham Lincoln and other legislators, supported the move from Vandalia, which had served as capital since 1820.
Springfield is strongly associated with Lincoln, who lived there from 1837 until 1861. He practiced law, represented Illinois politically, and delivered important speeches in the city before becoming president. The Illinois State Capitol and the Old State Capitol are major landmarks.
A frequent confusion is between Springfield and Chicago. Chicago is Illinois’s largest city and economic center, but Springfield is the political capital. The city also serves as the county seat of Sangamon County and lies along the Sangamon River.