Second Continental Congress

Definition

The Second Continental Congress was a convention of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that met from May 1775 to March 1781, serving as the national government during the American Revolutionary War. This assembly coordinated the colonial war effort, managed diplomatic relations with foreign nations, and ultimately adopted the Declaration of Independence, marking a pivotal shift in the colonies' fight for autonomy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Continental Congress convened shortly after the Battles of Lexington and Concord, marking a crucial response to growing tensions with Britain.
2. In addition to declaring independence, the Congress authorized the printing of money and established a committee to handle foreign relations.
3. Key figures like John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Hancock played significant roles in the Congress's decisions.
4. The Congress acted as a de facto national government during the war, despite lacking formal authority over the colonies.
5. The adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, was one of the most significant actions taken by this congress, solidifying the colonies' break from British rule.

Review Questions

• How did the Second Continental Congress respond to the escalating conflict with Britain and what major actions did it take?
  • The Second Continental Congress responded to the growing conflict with Britain by taking several significant actions. It established the Continental Army to coordinate military efforts against British forces and appointed George Washington as its commander-in-chief. Additionally, it initiated diplomatic efforts with other nations for support and ultimately adopted the Olive Branch Petition in an attempt to seek peace before fully committing to independence. These actions marked a turning point in how the colonies organized their resistance against British rule.
• Discuss the importance of the Declaration of Independence in relation to the goals and activities of the Second Continental Congress.
  • The Declaration of Independence was crucial for the Second Continental Congress as it articulated the colonies' desire for autonomy from British rule. This document not only justified their actions but also united the colonies under a common purpose. By formally declaring independence on July 4, 1776, the Congress shifted from seeking reconciliation to asserting their right to self-governance. This act galvanized support both domestically and internationally, enabling more robust military and financial assistance as they engaged in war.
• Evaluate how the governance structure created by the Second Continental Congress influenced future American political development.
  • The governance structure established by the Second Continental Congress set important precedents for American political development. As this congress operated as a national government during wartime without a formal constitution, it revealed both strengths and weaknesses in uniting diverse colonies under one leadership. The subsequent creation of the Articles of Confederation reflected attempts to maintain state sovereignty while providing some level of central authority. However, its inadequacies ultimately led to calls for a stronger federal system, resulting in the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and shaping the U.S. Constitution.

Related terms

Continental Army: The army established by the Second Continental Congress to fight against British forces, led by George Washington as its commander-in-chief.

Olive Branch Petition: A document sent to King George III by the Second Continental Congress in July 1775, expressing a desire for peace and reconciliation, but ultimately rejected by the king.

Articles of Confederation: The first constitution of the United States, created by the Second Continental Congress, which established a loose confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government.