Continental Congress

Definition

The Continental Congress was a series of gatherings of colonial representatives that acted as a governing body during the American Revolution. These assemblies were crucial in coordinating the colonial response to British policies and facilitating military strategies, including the organization of the Continental Army. The Congress played a vital role in uniting the colonies and declaring independence, laying the groundwork for a new nation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Continental Congress first convened in September 1774 in response to the Intolerable Acts, which had provoked widespread anger among the colonies.
2. It was composed of delegates from twelve of the thirteen colonies, with Georgia absent at the first meeting.
3. The Second Continental Congress succeeded the first and was pivotal in managing the war effort and ultimately issuing the Declaration of Independence.
4. The Congress served not only as a governmental body but also as a diplomatic channel, seeking foreign alliances to support the revolutionary cause.
5. During the harsh winter at Valley Forge, the Continental Congress faced criticism for its inability to adequately supply and support Washington's troops, highlighting its challenges as a governing entity.

Review Questions

• How did the Continental Congress contribute to uniting the colonies during the American Revolution?
  • The Continental Congress acted as a central coordinating body for the colonies, bringing together representatives from different regions to discuss and strategize against British rule. It facilitated communication among colonies and helped forge alliances and agreements that unified their efforts in resistance. By organizing collective actions like boycotts and establishing a Continental Army, it fostered a sense of shared purpose and identity among the colonies.
• In what ways did the Second Continental Congress address military strategies and leadership during the Revolutionary War?
  • The Second Continental Congress was crucial in overseeing military operations during the Revolutionary War, particularly by appointing George Washington as commander of the Continental Army. It coordinated troop movements, allocated resources, and sought foreign assistance, demonstrating its role as both a political body and a military authority. This strategic oversight was essential in developing cohesive plans that would ultimately lead to significant victories against British forces.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Continental Congress in managing wartime challenges faced by American forces, particularly during harsh conditions like those at Valley Forge.
  • The effectiveness of the Continental Congress in managing wartime challenges was often hampered by limited resources and political divisions among states. During tough winters like that at Valley Forge, where troops suffered from shortages and inadequate supplies, Congress struggled to meet their needs due to its lack of direct control over state militias and finances. This highlighted significant weaknesses in its authority and ability to sustain military efforts, impacting morale and operational effectiveness during critical moments in the war.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: A formal statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule.

Continental Army: The military force established by the Continental Congress in 1775 to fight against British forces during the American Revolutionary War.

Second Continental Congress: The assembly that convened in May 1775, which managed the colonial war effort and moved incrementally towards independence, including the appointment of George Washington as commander of the Continental Army.