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What was the Second Continental Congress?

What was the Second Continental Congress?

What was the Second Continental Congress?

The Second Continental Congress was a political body that existed from 1775 to 1781, during the early years of the American Revolution. It acted as the de facto government of the United States during this time, organizing the colonial resistance to British rule and helping to lay the foundation for the eventual creation of the United States. This article will provide an overview of the Second Continental Congress, including its structure, key accomplishments, and legacy.

Structure

The Second Continental Congress was made up of delegates from the thirteen colonies, who were elected by their respective colonial assemblies. Its structure was similar to that of the First Continental Congress, which had met in 1774, and it continued the work of that body in organizing the colonial response to British policies. The Second Continental Congress initially met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but later moved to other locations as the Revolutionary War progressed.

Accomplishments

The Second Continental Congress accomplished many important things during its existence. Its most notable achievement was the establishment of the Continental Army in 1775 and the appointment of George Washington as its commander-in-chief. This marked a significant step towards the colonial goal of independence from Britain and demonstrated the Congress’s commitment to using military force to achieve that goal.

Another important accomplishment of the Second Continental Congress was the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This document, which declared the colonies’ separation from Britain and their commitment to democratic ideals, remains a cornerstone of American political thought and a symbol of freedom and democracy around the world.

In addition to these major achievements, the Second Continental Congress also managed the day-to-day affairs of the colonies during the Revolutionary War and took steps towards the eventual formation of the United States government. It established committees to handle issues related to finance, foreign affairs, and military strategy, and it drafted documents such as the Articles of Confederation, which served as the first constitution of the United States.

Legacy

The Second Continental Congress had a profound impact on American history and helped to shape the country we know today. Its military and political achievements during the Revolutionary War laid the foundation for the establishment of the United States, and its commitment to democratic principles and civil liberties helped to shape the values of the fledgling nation.

Perhaps the most important legacy of the Second Continental Congress was its role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. This document continues to inspire people around the world and serves as a testament to the courage and conviction of the American revolutionaries who fought for freedom and democracy in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

The Second Continental Congress was a crucial political body that played a key role in the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States. Its achievements, including the establishment of the Continental Army, the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, and the creation of the Articles of Confederation, continue to shape American history and serve as a reminder of the values and principles that underpin the American political system.


The Second Continental Congress met on May 10, 1775. This was, in many respects, a continuation of the First Continental Congress. Many of the original 56 delegates from twelve of the thirteen colonies had come back to participate in the Second Continental Congress. However, some new faces had joined them in this endeavor, notably Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, and Thomas Jefferson.

In the Second Continental Congress, there was more of a consensus by the delegates that there needed to be a separation from England. During the First Continental Congress, there were still lingering feelings of loyalty and hope that the colonies and England could rectify their sullen relationship. However, by 1775, the actual fighting of the American Revolution was underway, and British and Colonial soldiers were battling for the control of the colonies.

The Second Continental Congress came together as a convention of ideas and action. In the minds of the delegates, it was necessary to formally separate from England. To do so, the idea of the Declaration of Independence was conceived. This was a formal document proclaiming the emancipation of the American colonies from English rule. It was written up and created by members of the Second Continental Congress and formally presented to the King of England.

In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was accepted and signed by the King, relinquishing control over the colonies. After the Declaration of Independence was signed and the colonies were formally over, the next item on the agenda was to create a governing system for the colonies in order to provide rights and protection to the people.