The Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia amidst growing tensions between the Thirteen Colonies and Great Britain. Responding to the British military's aggressive actions, including the battles at Lexington and Concord, colonial leaders saw the necessity for a coordinated military response. Before this formal establishment, militias had acted independently, lacking centralized command or structure. Recognizing that a unified army would strengthen their cause, the Congress decided to create the Continental Army on June 14, 1775. George Washington, a respected military leader from Virginia, was chosen to lead this new force, symbolizing unity among the colonies. His experience in the French and Indian War played a crucial role in his selection.Washington's leadership brought discipline, strategic vision, and the ability to foster cooperation among diverse colonial factions. The Continental Army faced numerous challenges, including inadequate supplies, lack of training, and internal divisions. Despite these hurdles, the formation of the army galvanized colonial support for the Revolutionary cause. Recruitment strategies were developed, and soldiers from different colonies came together under a common banner, enhancing coordination in battles that lay ahead. As the Continental Army grew, it became instrumental in various campaigns against British forces, establishing a precedent for the future United States Armed Forces and embedding military service as a cornerstone of American civic duty.