What Was Accomplished At The Second Continental Congress

Alright, let's delve into the accomplishments of the Second Continental Congress.

Imagine a group of individuals, deeply concerned about the escalating tensions with Great Britain, gathering in Philadelphia. They were not just any individuals, but representatives from thirteen colonies, each grappling with the question of whether to reconcile with the crown or to forge a new, independent path. This was the setting of the Second Continental Congress, a pivotal moment in American history.

The Second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia on May 10, 1775, just weeks after the Battles of Lexington and Concord ignited the flames of the American Revolutionary War. Unlike its predecessor, the First Continental Congress, which primarily sought to address grievances through petitions and boycotts, the Second Continental Congress faced a more pressing and complex reality: a war had begun. The delegates recognized the need for decisive action and a unified response to the unfolding crisis.

The Genesis of a Nation: Key Accomplishments of the Second Continental Congress

The Second Continental Congress was far more than just a gathering of concerned colonists; it was the de facto government of a nation in the making. Over the course of its existence, from 1775 to 1781, the Congress made several crucial decisions that fundamentally shaped the course of American history. Let's examine these landmark accomplishments in detail:

1. Formation of the Continental Army and Appointment of George Washington

One of the most immediate and critical tasks facing the Congress was to create a unified military force to defend the colonies against British aggression. While local militias had risen up to fight at Lexington and Concord, it was clear that a more organized and coordinated army was necessary to sustain a prolonged conflict.

• Creation of the Continental Army: On June 14, 1775, the Congress officially established the Continental Army. This marked a significant step towards centralizing military authority and ensuring a more consistent and effective fighting force.
• Appointment of George Washington: Recognizing the need for strong leadership, the Congress unanimously appointed George Washington as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army on June 15, 1775. Washington, a Virginia planter and veteran of the French and Indian War, possessed the military experience, leadership qualities, and personal gravitas necessary to unite the disparate colonial militias and lead them in the fight for independence. This decision was pivotal, as Washington's leadership would prove crucial throughout the long and arduous war.

2. Declaration of Independence: A Defining Moment

The decision to declare independence from Great Britain was arguably the most significant accomplishment of the Second Continental Congress. While the initial goal of the Congress was to seek redress of grievances within the British Empire, the escalating conflict, coupled with King George III's rejection of colonial petitions, gradually shifted public opinion towards independence.

• Growing Sentiment for Independence: As the war progressed, the idea of reconciliation with Britain became increasingly untenable. Thomas Paine's Common Sense, published in January 1776, played a crucial role in swaying public opinion, arguing persuasively for the necessity of independence.
• The Resolution for Independence: On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced a resolution declaring that the colonies "are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states." This resolution set the stage for the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.
• Drafting and Adoption of the Declaration: A committee of five, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston, was tasked with drafting a declaration of independence. Jefferson, known for his eloquent writing style, was primarily responsible for writing the document. The Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, was a bold and revolutionary statement that asserted the inherent rights of man and proclaimed the colonies' separation from British rule. This document not only declared independence but also articulated the philosophical principles upon which the new nation would be founded.

3. Establishing a System of Governance: The Articles of Confederation

Recognizing that independence required a formal structure of government, the Second Continental Congress began to grapple with the challenge of creating a unified system of governance for the newly independent states.

• Drafting the Articles of Confederation: A committee was appointed to draft a plan for a national government. The resulting document, the Articles of Confederation, established a "league of friendship" among the states, with a weak central government and strong state sovereignty.
• Ratification and Implementation: The Articles of Confederation were adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777, but ratification by all thirteen states was not completed until 1781. While the Articles represented an important step towards national unity, its weaknesses, particularly the lack of a strong central authority, soon became apparent, leading to calls for a more robust federal government.

4. Conducting Diplomacy and Securing Foreign Alliances

The Second Continental Congress understood that securing foreign alliances, particularly with France, was crucial to winning the war against Great Britain.

• Seeking Foreign Recognition and Aid: The Congress dispatched diplomats to Europe to seek recognition and financial and military assistance. Benjamin Franklin, serving as the American envoy to France, played a pivotal role in cultivating French support for the American cause.
• The Treaty of Alliance with France: In 1778, after the American victory at Saratoga, France formally recognized the United States and entered into a military alliance. This alliance provided the Americans with much-needed financial and military support, significantly bolstering their chances of success. The French alliance proved to be a turning point in the war, providing the Americans with crucial resources and naval support that helped to offset British advantages.

5. Managing Finances and Issuing Currency

Financing the war effort was a major challenge for the Second Continental Congress. The Congress lacked the power to levy taxes directly and relied on contributions from the states, which were often slow in coming.

• Issuing Continental Currency: To finance the war, the Congress authorized the printing of paper money known as Continental currency. However, the over-issuance of Continental currency led to rampant inflation, which severely undermined its value and created economic hardship.
• Borrowing Money and Seeking Loans: The Congress also sought to borrow money from foreign governments and private lenders. These loans, along with the French alliance, helped to sustain the war effort, but the financial burden remained a significant challenge throughout the conflict.

6. Establishing a Postal Service

Recognizing the need for efficient communication across the colonies, the Second Continental Congress established a postal service. This facilitated the exchange of information, enabling the Congress to communicate with state governments, military leaders, and diplomats abroad. Benjamin Franklin, with his extensive experience in postal administration, was appointed as the first Postmaster General.

7. Creating the Continental Navy and Marine Corps

In addition to establishing the Continental Army, the Second Continental Congress also recognized the importance of creating a naval force to challenge British dominance on the seas.

• Authorization of Naval Vessels: The Congress authorized the construction and acquisition of naval vessels, laying the foundation for the Continental Navy.
• Establishment of the Marine Corps: On November 10, 1775, the Congress established the Continental Marines, marking the birth of the United States Marine Corps. These forces played a crucial role in naval engagements and coastal defense.

The Impact and Legacy of the Second Continental Congress

The Second Continental Congress was a remarkable experiment in self-governance, born out of crisis and necessity. While its structure and powers were limited, it effectively served as the government of the United States during the critical years of the American Revolution. The decisions made by the Congress, from the formation of the Continental Army to the Declaration of Independence and the securing of foreign alliances, were instrumental in achieving American independence.

The Second Continental Congress faced numerous challenges, including a lack of resources, internal divisions, and the daunting task of fighting a war against a global superpower. However, through perseverance, compromise, and a shared commitment to the cause of liberty, the delegates overcame these obstacles and laid the foundation for a new nation.

In Summary, the Second Continental Congress:

• Established the Continental Army and appointed George Washington as Commander-in-Chief.
• Declared independence from Great Britain, articulating the principles of self-government and individual rights.
• Drafted the Articles of Confederation, establishing a framework for national governance.
• Conducted diplomacy and secured vital foreign alliances, particularly with France.
• Managed finances and issued currency to fund the war effort.
• Established a postal service to facilitate communication.
• Created the Continental Navy and Marine Corps to challenge British naval power.

The legacy of the Second Continental Congress extends far beyond the American Revolution. The principles of self-government, individual liberty, and representative democracy enshrined in the Declaration of Independence continue to inspire movements for freedom and justice around the world. The challenges faced by the Congress in forging a unified nation out of thirteen disparate colonies provide valuable lessons for contemporary efforts to promote international cooperation and resolve global challenges.

Current Trends and Perspectives

Today, historians continue to examine the Second Continental Congress, exploring the complexities of its decisions, the motivations of its members, and the long-term consequences of its actions. Recent scholarship has focused on:

• The Role of Enslaved People: Examining the contributions and experiences of enslaved Africans and African Americans during the Revolutionary era, and how the promise of liberty contrasted with the reality of slavery.
• The Experiences of Women: Highlighting the roles of women in supporting the war effort, managing households, and advocating for political change.
• Indigenous Perspectives: Exploring the impact of the Revolution on Native American communities and their relationships with the newly formed United States.
• The Evolution of Political Thought: Analyzing the intellectual currents that shaped the decisions of the delegates and the development of American political ideology.

Expert Advice and Practical Tips for Understanding the Second Continental Congress

Here are some practical tips for gaining a deeper understanding of the Second Continental Congress:

• Read Primary Sources: Immerse yourself in the writings of the Founding Fathers, such as the letters of John Adams, the pamphlets of Thomas Paine, and the journals of the Continental Congress. These primary sources provide firsthand accounts of the events and debates of the era.
• Visit Historical Sites: Explore the historical sites associated with the Second Continental Congress, such as Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Visiting these locations can help you visualize the events that took place and connect with the past in a tangible way.
• Engage with Historical Scholarship: Read books and articles by leading historians who specialize in the American Revolution. These scholars offer valuable insights and interpretations of the events and figures of the era.
• Participate in Discussions and Debates: Join discussions and debates about the Second Continental Congress and the American Revolution. Engaging with others can help you challenge your own assumptions and broaden your understanding of the topic.
• Explore Online Resources: Utilize online resources, such as digital archives and educational websites, to access primary sources, historical documents, and scholarly articles related to the Second Continental Congress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What was the main purpose of the Second Continental Congress?

A: The main purpose was to respond to the escalating conflict with Great Britain and to determine the best course of action for the colonies, ultimately leading to the Declaration of Independence.

Q: Who were some of the key figures in the Second Continental Congress?

A: Key figures included John Adams, Samuel Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington.

Q: What were the Articles of Confederation?

A: The Articles of Confederation were the first attempt to establish a national government for the United States, creating a "league of friendship" among the states with a weak central government.

Q: Why was the alliance with France so important?

A: The alliance with France provided the Americans with crucial financial and military support, significantly bolstering their chances of success against Great Britain.

Q: What were some of the challenges faced by the Second Continental Congress?

A: Challenges included a lack of resources, internal divisions, and the daunting task of fighting a war against a global superpower.

Conclusion

The Second Continental Congress stands as a testament to the courage, vision, and determination of the American colonists who dared to challenge the might of the British Empire. Its accomplishments, from the formation of the Continental Army to the Declaration of Independence and the securing of foreign alliances, were instrumental in achieving American independence and laying the foundation for a new nation.

The legacy of the Second Continental Congress continues to inspire and inform us today, reminding us of the importance of self-government, individual liberty, and the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

What aspects of the Second Continental Congress do you find most fascinating, and how do you think its decisions continue to shape our world today?