The History and Significance of the Continental Congress in the American Revolution

Continental Congress

The legislative assembly composed of delegates from the rebel colonies who met during and after the American Revolution

The Continental Congress was a governing body established by the colonies in America during the period leading up to the American Revolution. The congress convened on September 5, 1774, and was a response to the British attempt to assert authority over the colonies.

The Continental Congress was composed of delegates from each of the thirteen colonies in America, who were charged with representing the interests of their respective colonies. The congress chose Philadelphia as its meeting place and held its sessions in Independence Hall.

Initially, the Continental Congress was formed as a means of petitioning the British government for recognition of their rights as British citizens. However, as tensions between the colonies and Britain escalated, the congress began to take on more powers and functions. It was during this time that the Declaration of Independence was drafted and adopted, formally declaring the colonies’ independence from Britain.

The Continental Congress played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, fostering unity and cooperation between the colonies and serving as the primary governing body for the new nation during its early years. The congress eventually gave way to the formation of a new, more permanent government structure with the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1788.

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