Second Continental Congress Convenes in Philadelphia
May 10th, 1775
May 10th, 1775

How Long Ago?
249 years, 10 months, 5 days ago
Location
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
American Revolutionary War
People
- Thomas Jefferson
- John Adams
- George Washington
- Benjamin Franklin
- John Hancock
Links & References
Tags
Second Continental Congress Convenes in Philadelphia
Delegates from the Thirteen Colonies assembled in Philadelphia to address the ongoing conflict with Great Britain and to take formal action in response to British aggression. The meeting followed the escalating tensions after the Battles of Lexington and Concord, marking a pivotal point in the American quest for independence. Leaders such as John Hancock and George Washington gathered to manage military affairs and establish a unified colonial response to British policies.
John Hancock served as the Congress's president.
George Washington was named commander of the Continental Army.
The Congress debated independence and military strategy.
The Olive Branch Petition aimed for reconciliation with Britain.
What Happened?
The Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia, gathering delegates from the Thirteen Colonies in response to the escalating conflict with Great Britain. This assembly followed the earlier First Continental Congress and was uniquely marked by the urgent need to manage growing tensions after the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Congress convened during a time when the Thirteen Colonies were beginning to adopt a more assertive stance against British authority, fueled by the desire for independence and self-governance.
Delegates such as John Hancock, who was elected as president of the Congress, and others like Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson, played crucial roles in deliberations. One of the Congress's immediate goals was to organize the colonial military efforts. The Continental Army was established, with George Washington appointed as its commander, symbolizing a pivotal shift from disorganized local militias to a more professional military force aimed at challenging British rule.
The meeting also marked a significant step towards a collective identity among the colonies. Here, the delegates debated various strategies, from seeking reconciliation with the British Crown to pushing for total independence. They also issued the Olive Branch Petition in July, a final attempt to avoid war, although it was rejected by King George III, leading the Congress to fully commit to the cause of independence in subsequent meetings.
Why Does it Matter?
The Second Continental Congress is noteworthy for its role in unifying the colonies against British governance. It was significant in transitioning from colonial governance to an independent framework as it laid the groundwork for the Declaration of Independence in the following year. The decisions made here, especially the establishment of the Continental Army and the appointment of George Washington, were pivotal in forming the United States. Its actions helped forge a shared American identity that was essential in rallying support for independence.
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