What are the differences between the 1st and 2nd continental congress and their outcome?
http://www.enjoyingphiladelphia.com/second_continental_congress.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Continental_Congress
The First and Second Continental Congress were both significant events in the lead up to the American Revolutionary War. Here are the differences between them and their respective outcomes:
1. Purpose and Timing:
- First Continental Congress: The First Continental Congress was convened in response to the Intolerable Acts passed by the British Parliament in 1774. It took place from September 5 to October 26, 1774, in Philadelphia.
- Second Continental Congress: The Second Continental Congress was held after the outbreak of hostilities between the American colonies and British forces at Lexington and Concord. It convened on May 10, 1775, also in Philadelphia.
2. Composition:
- First Continental Congress: The First Continental Congress consisted of representatives from all 13 American colonies, except for Georgia.
- Second Continental Congress: The Second Continental Congress included representatives from all 13 colonies, including Georgia.
3. Goals and Actions:
- First Continental Congress: The primary goal of the First Continental Congress was to discuss and formulate a unified response to British oppression, particularly the Intolerable Acts. They drafted a Declaration of Rights and Grievances, which was sent to the British monarch to demand a redress of grievances.
- Second Continental Congress: The Second Continental Congress initially aimed to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict with Britain. However, as hostilities escalated, they gradually transitioned into acting as the de facto government for the colonies. They formed the Continental Army, appointed George Washington as its commander-in-chief, and issued the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
4. Outcome:
- First Continental Congress: While the First Continental Congress did not seek independence from Britain, it marked an important step towards colonial unity. It led to an increased sense of American identity and resistance against British authority.
- Second Continental Congress: The Second Continental Congress effectively functioned as the governing body of the American colonies during the early years of the Revolutionary War. Its most significant outcome was the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which officially declared the colonies' independence from British rule.
In summary, the First Continental Congress focused on addressing grievances with Britain, while the Second Continental Congress served as the central governing body and ultimately declared independence.