Lesson 4: Second Continental Congress and the Declaration of Independence

The Second Continental Congress

• Date: May 10, 1775
• Background:
  • In 1774, the Continental Congress agreed to meet again if the British did not address their concerns.
  • Follows the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

Distinguished Leaders:

1. John and Samuel Adams - Cousins
2. Patrick Henry - Known for his speeches, motivated colonists.
3. Richard Henry Lee - Similar role to Patrick Henry.
4. George Washington - Served in the second term after the first Continental Congress.
5. Benjamin Franklin
   • Most respected in the 13 colonies.
   • Leader in Pennsylvania legislature.
   • In 1765, represented the 13 colonies in London.
   • Helped repeal the Stamp Act.
6. John Hancock
   • Wealthy merchant and funded many patriot groups.
   • President of the Second Continental Congress chosen from 55 delegates.
7. Colonists' Sentiment
   • Not ready to break away from Britain.

Key Actions

1. Authorized the printing of money.
2. Set up a post office.
3. Established committees for foreign relations.
4. Created a continental army (not a militia).
   • Enables strategic military actions.
5. Chose George Washington to command the army.
   • Experienced soldier and respected southerner.
   • Left Philadelphia to command Boston forces.
6. Gave Britain a final chance to avoid war.

War Heats Up

1. Congress learns Canadian troops plan to invade the colonies.
2. America decides to strike first.
3. Colonists capture Fort Montreal but fail in Quebec (led by Benedict Arnold).
4. George Washington's Actions
   • Arrives in Boston on July 17, 1775.
   • Transforms civilians into soldiers.
   • Acquired weapons, including dozens of cannons.
   • By March 17, 1776, the army was ready to fight.
   • Moved soldiers and cannons into Boston harbor.
5. British surprise and retreat
   • General William Howe orders British evacuation from Boston.

Moving Toward Independence

• Loyalists vs. Patriots
  • Many hope to remain with Britain (Loyalists).
  • Support for independence grows (Patriots).
• Thomas Paine
  • Writer who inspired patriots.
  • Published "Common Sense" in January 1776 urging independence.

Declaring Independence

Debate at the Second Continental Congress

• Discuss independence vs. remaining under British rule.
• Richard Henry Lee proposed independence in June 1776.

Debate Resolution

• Varied opinions on forming a nation and fearing British power.

Writing the Declaration

1. Committee included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Robert Livingston, Roger Sherman.
2. Thomas Jefferson was asked to draft the Declaration.
   • His writing was influenced by John Locke's philosophy.
   • Natural rights: life, liberty, property.
3. July 2, 1776, Congress voted for independence (except New York).
4. July 4, 1776, Declaration approved and signed (first by John Hancock).
5. Declaration printed and distributed; read publicly, including to George Washington's troops on July 9, 1776.

Parts of the Declaration of Independence

1. Preamble (Introduction)
2. Declaration of Natural Rights
3. List of Grievances
4. Resolution of Independence