AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: The Second Continental Congress (Day 46/309)

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

Architecture of Independence Hall, National Park Service

Shortly after Lexington and Congress, colonists met in Philadelphia in the Second Continental Congress. In May 1775, most Americans were still undecided over the issue of independence.

Declaration of the Causes and Necessities for Taking up Arms, Library of Congress

Some delegates sought to prepare for war and adopted the Declaration of the Causes and Necessities for Taking up Arms. They appointed George Washington as commander-in-chief and organized a Continental Army.

Signature Page of the Olive Branch Petition, Wikimedia Commons

However, in an effort to restore peace, an “Olive Branch Petition” was sent to King George III. It pledged loyalty and asked the king to secure peace and the protection of colonial rights.

Royal Proclamation of Rebellion 1775, Wikimedia Commons

In response, the King dismissed the plea and declared the colonies to be in rebellion. The Prohibitory Act was passed which cut off all trade and removed the colonies from British protection. These actions led to the development of an official resolution for independence.

At its outset, the Second Continental Congress was divided over the issue of independence and both prepared for war while simultaneously attempting to restore peace. However, by the end of 1775, calls for independence grew stronger.

Join me tomorrow as I explain Revolutionary Ideas in our next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!