Congress Shifts from Peace to War
Congress Shifts from Peace to War is a Grade 5 history skill from California myWorld Interactive, Chapter 5: The American Revolution. Students learn how the Second Continental Congress sent the Olive Branch Petition to King George III seeking peaceful resolution, but when the king declared the colonies in rebellion, Congress created the Continental Army and began acting as a government.
Key Concepts
When the Second Continental Congress first met on May 10, 1775, many delegates were not ready for independence. They made one final attempt at peace by sending the Olive Branch Petition to King George III, promising loyalty if he protected their rights.
The king rejected the petition and declared the colonies in rebellion. This showed the delegates that a peaceful agreement was not possible. In response, the Congress began to act as a government, creating the Continental Army to defend the colonies against the British.
Common Questions
What was the Olive Branch Petition?
The Olive Branch Petition was a final peace attempt by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, sent to King George III promising loyalty if he would protect colonists' rights.
How did King George III respond to the Olive Branch Petition?
King George III rejected the petition and declared the colonies in rebellion, making clear that a peaceful agreement was impossible and forcing the Congress to prepare for war.
Why did the Second Continental Congress create the Continental Army?
After the king declared the colonies in rebellion, Congress realized war was inevitable. They created the Continental Army to defend the colonies against British military forces.
What textbook covers the Second Continental Congress for Grade 5?
This topic is covered in California myWorld Interactive, Grade 5, Chapter 5: The American Revolution.