The Second Continental Congress Convenes in Philadelphia

Date: May 10, 1775

Context and Background

The Second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 10, 1775, against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain. The First Continental Congress had met in 1774 to address colonial grievances over British policies, but by the time the Second Congress assembled, the situation had deteriorated further. The Battles of Lexington and Concord had occurred on April 19, 1775, marking the outbreak of armed conflict between colonial militias and British forces.

Key Events Leading Up to the Congress

• Intolerable Acts (1774): A series of punitive measures by the British Parliament in response to the Boston Tea Party, which further inflamed colonial opposition.
• First Continental Congress (1774): Delegates from twelve colonies met to coordinate a response to the Intolerable Acts, leading to a boycott of British goods and a petition to King George III.
• Lexington and Concord (April 1775): The first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War, which galvanized colonial resistance and underscored the need for a unified response.

The Convening of the Congress

The Second Continental Congress brought together delegates from all thirteen colonies. Notable figures included John Hancock, who was elected president of the Congress, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. The Congress met at the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall.

Key Actions and Decisions

• Continental Army: One of the Congress’s first actions was to establish a Continental Army to coordinate the colonial military effort. George Washington was appointed as its commander-in-chief on June 15, 1775.
• Olive Branch Petition: Despite the outbreak of hostilities, the Congress initially sought reconciliation with Britain, sending the Olive Branch Petition to King George III in July 1775, which was ultimately rejected.
• Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms: Issued on July 6, 1775, this document outlined the colonies’ reasons for armed resistance.
• Financing the War: The Congress authorized the issuance of paper currency to fund the war effort, marking the beginning of American fiscal policy.

Broader Historical Significance

The Second Continental Congress played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, transitioning the colonies from a state of protest to one of open rebellion. It laid the groundwork for the eventual Declaration of Independence, which would be adopted on July 4, 1776. The Congress functioned as the de facto national government of the United States during the Revolutionary War, overseeing military strategy, diplomacy, and financial matters.

Aftermath and Consequences

The actions taken by the Second Continental Congress set the stage for the colonies’ eventual independence from Britain. The establishment of a unified military command and the move towards self-governance were critical steps in the formation of the United States. The Congress continued to meet throughout the war, adapting to the changing needs of the revolutionary cause and laying the foundation for the future governance of the nation.

In summary, the convening of the Second Continental Congress on May 10, 1775, marked a significant turning point in American history, as the colonies moved from protest to revolution, setting the stage for the birth of a new nation.