resentatives to what is now being called the First Continental Congress. They met in secret because they did not want the British to know that they, the colonies, were uniting. At first there were 44 delegates who met in Carpenter's Hall in Philadelphia, twelve other delegates reported late. Some of those who came were George Washington, Patrick Henry, John Jay, John Adams, and Samuel Adams. Peyton Randolph of Virginia was chosen president, as the first Continental Congress became a school for American leaders. This was like a school for American leaders. They made a list of basic rights they wanted and a list of complaints to send to King George III. They signed a petition demanding the "Intolerable Acts" be repealed and sent it to England. The Continental Association was also created, this was an agreement of the colonies to stop all trade with Britain until their demands were met. The men adjourned the Congress on October 26, 1774 and decided to meet again in May of 1775 in Philadelphia if King George III did not repeal the "Intolerable Acts."On May 5, 1775 the Second Continental Congress met as agreed. There were mixed feelings about what should be done about the continued hostile acts of the British Parliament. Some delegates wanted immediate independence no matter what the cost. Others were still loyal to King George III and even though they did not like the British taxation without representation. They wanted to avoid an all-out war with England. Finally, they decided to go slowly and not make any drastic moves that might start a major war. However, on the other hand, they also felt they needed to protect themselves, so they established the Continental Army and named George Washington as Commander-in-Chief. They also passed a "Declaration of Causes of Taking up Arms," which named England as an aggressor and gave the Colonists the right to take up arms against the British. After King George III officially called the Colonies in re...
