Final answer:
The original intent of a national center close to Washington, DC, was to establish a balance of power between the central and state governments. Despite its lack of natural defenses, Washington, D.C.'s role as the national capital has been pivotal in centralizing government power, a trend that has continued to evolve over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The original intent of a national center close to Washington, DC, was to help create a balance of powers between the central government headquartered in Washington, DC, and the multiple state governments. In the United States, the term 'state' designates major subnational governmental units and stems from the early historical perspective of Americans viewing themselves as part of 'The United Countries of America.' The establishment of Washington, D.C., as the national capital, according to Section 8 Clause 17, was chosen by Congress due to its location befitting a federal capital outside the jurisdiction of any state, initially part of Maryland and Virginia.
Despite having no natural defenses, which became evident during the British invasion in the War of 1812, Washington, D.C.'s, significance in centralizing government was reinforced by monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial. Over time, especially following events like the 9/11 attacks, there has been a noticeable shift back towards central federal power, as seen with the establishment of federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration, and policies like the Faith-Based Initiative, No Child Left Behind, and the Affordable Care Act.