Second Continental Congress and Independence

The video discusses the Second Continental Congress, highlighting its role in organizing the American colonies for the impending revolution. It covers the internal divisions between conservative and radical factions, the Olive Branch Petition, and the King's dismissive response. The Congress's efforts to form a Continental Army under George Washington, manage governmental functions, and create the Declaration of Independence are also explored, emphasizing the challenges of unifying the colonies and gaining international recognition.

What was the main purpose of the Second Continental Congress?

• To establish trade agreements with Spain

• To elect a new king

• To organize a response to the British threat

• To declare war on France

Who led the conservative faction in the Second Continental Congress?

• John Dickinson

• Benjamin Franklin

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

What was the Olive Branch Petition?

• A peace offering to King George

• A declaration of war

• A trade agreement with France

• A military strategy document

How did King George respond to the Olive Branch Petition?

• He accepted it and granted independence

• He ignored it completely

• He saw it as an insult and rejected it

• He used it to negotiate peace

Who was chosen to lead the Continental Army?

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• John Adams

• Alexander Hamilton

Why was George Washington a suitable choice to lead the Continental Army?

• He was a wealthy landowner

• He was the only available candidate with some military background

• He had extensive military experience

• He was a close friend of King George

What was one of the main challenges faced by the Second Continental Congress?

• Creating a new language

• Establishing a monarchy

• Gaining recognition from other countries

• Finding a new capital city

What was the most significant accomplishment of the Second Continental Congress?

• The election of a president

• The establishment of a national bank

• The signing of the Treaty of Paris

• The creation of the Declaration of Independence

What was a major obstacle in unifying the 13 colonies?

• Geographical barriers

• Different languages spoken

• Varied economic interests

• Lack of a common religion

Why was the Declaration of Independence important?

• It created a new form of government

• It stated the colonies' case for independence

• It declared war on Spain

• It established a new currency