The Second Continental Congress

The delegates of all 13 colonies assembled in Philadelphia in May 1775 for the Second Continental Congress. Those present included Sam Adams, Patrick Henry, John Hancock John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington. Some wanted to declare America independent immediately; some wanted to avoid war at all costs. The Response of Congress was double. While giving peace a final try, Congress established a Continental army and appointed George Washington as commander in chief. Armed volunteers from the middle and southern colonies marched north to meet the Patriots and help them. In July 1775, after 3 months of shots, the only signal was the beginning of the war.  Congress sent an “Olive Branch Petition” to the king and not the Parliament. But the king refused it and instead sent more troops.