moving toward independence 1775-1776. second continental congress may 10, 1775 second continental...
TRANSCRIPT
Second Continental CongressMay 10, 1775 Second Continental Congress meets. Again in Philadelphia, same building
New Leaders EmergeMany members from the First Continental Congress returned, and new members
arrived.
Benjamin Franklin Thomas Jefferson
AccomplishmentsCongress started doing governmental functions.
• 1. Authorized printing of money.• 2. Established a postal system.• 3. Establish communications with Native Americans• 4. Established an army George Washington in command.
Thomas PaineJanuary 1776, Paine wrote a pamphlet called “Common Sense” which advocated independence.
Battle of QuebecAttacking during a blizzard on December 31, the assault fell
short. Montgomery was killed, Arnold wounded.
Daniel MorganTaking command of the Americans, Daniel Morgan led a skillful defense so the Americans could be saved.
Boston1776
British general William Howe controlled Boston. Washington wanted to drive him out. But he did not have the artillery to do it.
Henry Knox
A former bookseller, Knox came up with the idea of transporting cannon from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston.
Howe Evacuates
Knox transports 55 guns from Ticonderoga. Howe evacuates Boston to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Independence
Reasons for Caution
• Stability of English Law• If revolt fails—tried for
treason• Fear of Anarchy
Reasons for Independence
• Captured soldiers treated as prisoners
• Patriot government could confiscate goods
• Better chance of getting foreign aid
Committee FormedJune 11, five man committee is formed to write the document:
Benjamin Franklin
John Adams
Robert Livingston
Roger Sherman
Thomas Jefferson*
Jefferson youngest at 32 and is tasked with the writing.