The Second Continental Congress, which took place from 1775 to 1781, played a key role in helping America break away from British rule.

• Formation: It started in Philadelphia, with representatives from all 13 colonies.
• Goals: The Congress worked on managing the war, creating a new army, and finding allies from other countries.
• Key Decisions:
  • They chose George Washington to be the Commander-in-Chief of the army.
  • They passed the Olive Branch Petition in 1775 to show that they still wanted peace but were also loyal to their rights.
  • They adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which declared that the colonies were no longer a part of Britain.

These actions were important steps toward gaining independence.