Background: The relationship between the American colonies and the British government had been deteriorating over time because of disputes over issues such as lack of representation in government decision-making and unfair trade regulations.
Colonial leaders demanded a unified reaction in response to the oppressive Intolerable Acts enforced by Britain.
What Happened: The First Continental Congress took place in Philadelphia on September 5,1774, with representatives from 12 out of the 13 American colonies present (with the exception of Georgia).
The goal of the Congress was to organize a unified reaction to British policies, leading to the creation of a boycott of British products by the colonies and the writing of the Declaration of Rights and Grievances, which declared the rights of the colonies and condemned British violations.
Significance for the Future: The inception of the First Continental Congress symbolized the commencement of organized colonial cooperation in resisting British authority, laying the foundation for the American Revolution.
The actions of the Congress showed that the colonies were able to govern themselves and resist, which eventually led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the founding of the United States.
The ideas discussed and agreed upon during the Congress had a lasting impact on the growth of American democracy and governance.
Written by WorldLegacy.Net