How come most state capitals aren't the largest city in the state?

Question

ex;

New York
Pennysylvania
Maryland
Washington
California, etc

Answer 1

One other interesting thing is that alot of the capitals are located close to the center of the state. I think that was probably done since when they were founded, we did not have the transportation system that we have today so things had to be centrally located. Not sure about the size thing.

Answer 2

Can't say why .... but can add that not only are they not the largest city in the state generally, they are also usually the dullest city in the state!

Answer 3

been wondering that myself