The First Continental Congress and the Coercive Acts

In 1774, American colonists were frustrated with British policies, particularly the Coercive Acts. This led to the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia, where delegates from 12 colonies, except Georgia, met to discuss a unified response. Georgia was hesitant due to its economic ties with Britain and conflicts with American Indian tribes. The Congress supported the Suffolk Resolves, urging colonists to boycott British goods and form militias. They also issued a Declaration of Rights, asserting their entitlement to life, liberty, and property. The Congress agreed to reconvene if Britain ignored their concerns, setting the stage for the Revolutionary War.

What was the main reason for the First Continental Congress to convene in 1774?

• To declare independence from Britain

• To negotiate a trade deal with France

• To discuss the Coercive Acts and British taxes

• To form a new government

Which of the following was NOT a measure included in the Coercive Acts?

• Requiring colonists to house British troops

• Allowing colonists to elect their own governors

• Restricting town meetings in Massachusetts

• Closing the port of Boston

What was the British government's expectation from the Coercive Acts?

• To promote colonial independence

• To halt colonial rebellion

• To encourage colonial trade

• To improve colonial relations

Why did Georgia not send delegates to the First Continental Congress?

• They were facing conflicts with American Indian tribes

• They were under martial law

• They were loyal to the British crown

• They had no interest in colonial matters

Who was appointed as the president of the First Continental Congress?

• Thomas Jefferson

• Peyton Randolph

• George Washington

• John Adams

What was the purpose of the Suffolk Resolves?

• To establish a colonial militia

• To declare war on Britain

• To negotiate peace with Britain

• To form a new colonial government

What did the Continental Association call for?

• A new colonial currency

• A ban on trade with France

• A ban on trade with Great Britain

• A colonial army

What rights did the Declaration of Rights claim for American colonists?

• Right to life, liberty, and property

• Right to bear arms

• Right to vote

• Right to free speech

What was the Congress's plan if Britain did not address their grievances?

• To declare independence

• To reconvene the Congress

• To seek help from France

• To form a new government

What was the outcome of the First Continental Congress's meeting?

• Immediate independence

• A peace treaty with Britain

• A decision to meet again if necessary

• A new colonial constitution