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Continental Congress

Background

The Continental Congress was a convention of delegates from the Thirteen American Colonies that became the governing body during the American Revolutionary War. It played a crucial role in coordinating the colonial resistance against British rule and ultimately declared independence from Britain, laying the foundation for the United States. The Continental Congress met in two distinct sessions: the First Continental Congress (1774) and the Second Continental Congress (1775-1781). Here is an overview of its history, key actions, and significance:

The First Continental Congress (1774)

1. Formation and Purpose:

   • The First Continental Congress convened on September 5, 1774, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in response to the Intolerable Acts (Coercive Acts) imposed by Britain following the Boston Tea Party.
   • The Congress aimed to address colonial grievances and formulate a unified response to British policies.

2. Key Actions:

   • Petition to the King: The Congress sent a respectful petition to King George III, outlining the colonies' grievances and requesting the repeal of the Intolerable Acts.
   • Suffolk Resolves: The Congress endorsed the Suffolk Resolves, which called for civil disobedience and the formation of militias.
   • Continental Association: The delegates agreed to establish the Continental Association, a system for implementing a trade boycott against Britain, hoping economic pressure would lead to concessions.

3. Outcome:

   • The First Continental Congress adjourned in October 1774, agreeing to reconvene if their demands were not met. The British response was negative, leading to further unrest.

The Second Continental Congress (1775-1781)

1. Formation and Early Actions:

   • The Second Continental Congress convened on May 10, 1775, following the outbreak of hostilities at Lexington and Concord in April 1775.
   • Initially, the Congress aimed to manage the colonial war effort and explore possibilities for reconciliation with Britain.

2. Key Actions and Milestones:

   • Creation of the Continental Army: One of the first actions was to establish the Continental Army, appointing George Washington as its commander-in-chief on June 15, 1775.
   • Olive Branch Petition: In July 1775, the Congress sent the Olive Branch Petition to King George III, seeking a peaceful resolution. The king rejected the petition, declaring the colonies in a state of rebellion.
   • Declaration of Independence: On July 4, 1776, the Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson. This document proclaimed the colonies' right to self-governance and their separation from Britain.
   • Alliance with France: The Congress negotiated the Treaty of Alliance with France in 1778, securing crucial military and financial support for the American cause.
   • Articles of Confederation: In 1777, the Congress drafted and adopted the Articles of Confederation, the first constitution of the United States, which took effect in 1781 after ratification by all states.

3. Governance and Challenges:

   • The Congress functioned as the de facto national government, handling diplomacy, war strategy, and financial matters.
   • It faced numerous challenges, including limited authority, financial difficulties, and coordinating the efforts of the independent-minded states.

Significance and Legacy

1. Foundation for Independence:

   • The Continental Congress was instrumental in the American colonies' transition from rebellion to independence. Its actions unified the colonies, provided leadership, and articulated the principles of liberty and self-governance.

2. Governance Framework:

   • The Articles of Confederation, though flawed, provided a framework for national governance and served as a precursor to the U.S. Constitution.

3. International Recognition:

   • The Congress's diplomatic efforts, particularly the alliance with France, were crucial in securing victory in the Revolutionary War and gaining international recognition for the United States.

4. Symbol of Unity and Resistance:

   • The Continental Congress symbolized colonial unity and resistance against British tyranny, embodying the collaborative spirit that would define the new nation.

Conclusion

The Continental Congress played a central role in the American Revolution, coordinating the war effort, declaring independence, and laying the groundwork for the United States' government. Its legacy is reflected in the founding principles and enduring institutions of American democracy.

First Continental Congress

Second Continental Congress

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources

The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)