The Role and Impact of the Continental Congress in American Independence

The Continental Congress was the governing body during the American Revolutionary War. It was not the first time colonies united, as they had previously formed the Albany and Stamp Act Congresses. In 1774, the First Continental Congress met in response to British actions, followed by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, which managed the war effort. The Congress declared independence in 1776 with the Lee Resolution and the Declaration of Independence. Despite its achievements, the Congress struggled with enforcing laws and raising funds, leading to the Articles of Confederation. The Congress embodied the representative government desired by the colonies, with leaders like George Washington emphasizing its importance.

What was the primary role of the Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War?

• To draft the U.S. Constitution

• To govern the United States

• To establish trade routes

• To negotiate with Native American tribes

Which event led to the formation of the First Continental Congress?

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The drafting of the Articles of Confederation

• The Boston Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts

• The end of the French and Indian War

Who was chosen as the commander in chief of the Continental Army in 1775?

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• John Adams

What significant document did the Continental Congress pass in July 1776?

• The Bill of Rights

• The U.S. Constitution

• The Declaration of Independence

• The Articles of Confederation

Which resolution declared that the colonies ought to be free and independent states?

• The Intolerable Acts

• The Stamp Act

• The Lee Resolution

• The Albany Plan

What was one major weakness of the Continental Congress?

• Its ability to enforce laws

• Its power to declare war

• Its control over the military

• Its diplomatic relations with France

What document did the Continental Congress create to address its weaknesses?

• The Bill of Rights

• The Declaration of Independence

• The U.S. Constitution

• The Articles of Confederation

What was the role of George Washington in relation to the Continental Congress?

• He deferred to the civilian authority of Congress

• He drafted the Declaration of Independence

• He was the first President of the United States

• He was a delegate from Virginia

What did the members of the Continental Congress pledge to achieve independence?

• Their political careers

• Their military service

• Their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor

• Their wealth and power

What was the ultimate outcome of the Constitutional Convention in 1787?

• The signing of the Treaty of Paris

• The end of the Revolutionary War

• The drafting of the Articles of Confederation

• The creation of the United States Constitution