2nd Continental Congress

Definition

The Second Continental Congress was a convention of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that began meeting in 1775, during the American Revolution. It managed the colonial war effort and moved towards independence, culminating in the Declaration of Independence.

Analogy

Think of the 2nd Continental Congress as a team huddle during a crucial game. Just like players strategize and make key decisions during a huddle, this congress made important decisions about how to handle conflict with Britain and eventually decided on independence.

Related terms

American Revolution: A war fought from 1775-1783 between Great Britain and thirteen British colonies in North America which led to American independence.

Declaration of Independence: This is the document written by Thomas Jefferson and adopted by the Second Continental Congress that declared American colonies' independence from Great Britain.

Continental Army: The army established by the Second Continental Congress to fight against British forces during the American Revolution. George Washington was appointed as its commander-in-chief.