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Why did John Graves Simcoe choose the site of Toronto for the capital of Upper Canada in 1793?

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Toronto skyline — Toronto An aerial view of Toronto's skyline with the CN Tower at center.

In 1793, John Graves Simcoe, the first lieutenant governor of Upper Canada, selected the site of present-day Toronto to serve as the capital for several strategic reasons:

Fine Harbor: The location offered an excellent natural harbor, which was highly advantageous for maritime access and security.1
Strategic Defense and Trade: Simcoe recognized that the site provided a superior position for both military defense and the facilitation of trade.1
Potential of the Hinterland: He was impressed by the rich potential of the surrounding wilderness, which he believed would support the growth and development of the new capital.1

Following his selection, Simcoe renamed the site York, though it would later revert to its original name of Toronto upon its incorporation in 1834.1