AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: The First Continental Congress (Day 44/309)

Welcome to today’s explanation of the First Continental Congress in my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Carpenters’ Hall, Wikimedia Commons

After the passage of the Intolerable Acts, American colonists took a significant step toward unity against the British. In Philadelphia, they met as the First Continental Congress with delegates present from all 13 colonies except Georgia.

US Capitol, First Continental Congress, Wikimedia Commons

The main goal of the congress was to collectively put pressure on Parliament through protest and to find a path to restore the relationship. While some were calling for independence, in 1774, the majority were still loyal to Britain.

Address to the King, Wikimedia Commons

They drafted the Declaration of Resolves which outlined colonial objections to the Intolerable Acts and other parliamentary attempts to restrict their autonomy. 

Congress Resolved to Boycott, Digital History

The members of the congress also agreed to a widespread boycott of British goods and companies until their grievances were addressed. They voted to meet again in a year if sufficient changes were not implemented.

The First Continental Congress marked a significant step toward colonial unity against the British as colonial leaders took formal steps to collectively address the increasing tensions.

Join me tomorrow as I explain Lexington & Concord in our next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!