The Second Continental Congress

During the Revolutionary War, the Second Continental Congress acted as the national government of the Thirteen Colonies in rebellion.

In 1775, the colonies proposed the Olive Branch Petition to reconcile with Britain and avert war, but King George III denied the petition.

In 1776, revolution was fomented by Thomas Paine, who wrote Common Sense; and by Abigail Adams, who advocated for women's rights. Both individuals influenced the development of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.