What actions were taken by the first continental congress and what actions were taken by the second continental congress in regards to colonial concerns? Please help!!!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continental_Congress
So the First Continental Congress: organized a boycott of British trade known as the Continental Association, made the need to call up a second congree, a petition of King George the 3rd of Britain, and a list of wrongs by the British.
And the second: appointed washington the general of the american army (continental army) they were basically getting prepared for the war. they also treid to prevent war by passing the olive branch petition but that did not work out because british rejected it
Sorry for all the questions!
To understand the actions taken by the First and Second Continental Congresses in relation to colonial concerns, we should start by exploring the purpose, composition, and significance of these congresses.
The First Continental Congress was held in 1774 in response to the increasing tension between the American colonies and the British government. Representatives from twelve colonies, excluding Georgia, attended the congress in Philadelphia. The main goal of the First Continental Congress was to address colonial grievances and to develop a unified response to British policies.
Actions taken by the First Continental Congress:
1. Petitions and Resolutions: The congress drafted and sent petitions to King George III and the British Parliament, declaring their grievances and advocating for the rights of the colonies. They also adopted resolutions, such as the Suffolk Resolves, which called for the boycott of British goods.
2. The Association: The congress established the Continental Association, a coordinated colonial response to British policies. It organized a boycott of British imports and encouraged the enforcement of non-importation agreements.
3. Declaration of Rights and Grievances: The congress drafted and approved a Declaration of Rights and Grievances, outlining the colonial demands for greater autonomy, fair representation, and protection of their rights as British subjects.
On the other hand, the Second Continental Congress convened in 1775, shortly after the outbreak of armed conflict between colonial militias and British troops at Lexington and Concord. The Second Continental Congress played a more significant role in the American Revolution and the establishment of an independent United States.
Actions taken by the Second Continental Congress:
1. Declaration of Independence: Perhaps the most significant action was the drafting and adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which declared the colonies' separation from Britain and their intention to form a new nation.
2. The Continental Army: The congress authorized the creation of the Continental Army, with George Washington appointed as its commander-in-chief. This step demonstrated the colonial commitment to armed resistance against British forces.
3. Diplomatic Efforts and Alliances: The congress engaged in diplomatic negotiations, seeking foreign alliances and support. For example, they sent representatives to France to secure aid during the revolution.
4. Articles of Confederation: The congress also played a role in drafting the Articles of Confederation, which served as the first constitution of the newly independent United States. This established a loose confederation of the former colonies.
In summary, the First Continental Congress focused on petitioning the British government, organizing colonial responses, and expressing grievances. The Second Continental Congress, meanwhile, took more decisive actions such as declaring independence, forming the Continental Army, engaging in diplomacy, and laying the groundwork for a new nation.