the second continental congress 1775 Flashcards
when was the second continental congress?
10th may 1775
how many delegates were there?
65
what did the congress do?
took charge of the conduct of the war, assuming responsibility for the army around boston
impressing a quota on each colony sufficient to raise a continental army of 20,000 men
what happened in mid june?
the congress voted to issue $2 million in paper money to finance the force
who was in charge of the army and why was this significant?
george washington
cemented colonial unity since the army was predominantly new england
6th july 1775
declaration of the causes and necessities of taking up arms
listed colonial grievances
disclaimed any intention of separating from britain
what was the olive branch petition?
first draft written by thomas jefferson
appease king george and prevent further conflict between the colonies and england from escalating into a full blown war
rejected by george - proclamation of surpessing rebellion and sedation
bunker hill
april 1775
20,000 american militia men surrounded boston and besieged the city
bunker hill
june 1775
americans captured breeds hill and held 1500 men there
bunker hill
what did gage do?
sent a force to retake the hill and won, but at a great cost
40% casualties, most were officers - no one to command
george washington
virginian
humble and respected by others
introduced proper training , a hierarchy and discipline to the army