Key Events and Figures of the American Revolution

The video discusses the Second Continental Congress, which convened in May 1775 amid the American Revolution. Delegates from the 13 colonies, including new members like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, gathered to address the escalating conflict with Britain. The Congress made three major decisions: drafting the Olive Branch Petition to seek peace, forming the Continental Army under George Washington, and eventually debating independence. Despite initial attempts at reconciliation, the rejection of the Olive Branch Petition and the influence of Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' led to the push for independence, culminating in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

What event marked the beginning of the American Revolution?

• The battles of Lexington and Concord

• The Boston Tea Party

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The First Continental Congress

Which building hosted the Second Continental Congress?

• Independence Hall

• The White House

• The Capitol Building

• The British Parliament

Who was a new delegate at the Second Continental Congress known for his writings?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• Patrick Henry

• George Washington

What was the purpose of the Olive Branch Petition?

• To seek peace and affirm loyalty to the crown

• To declare war on Britain

• To request military aid from France

• To demand independence

What was King George III's response to the Olive Branch Petition?

• He ignored it and declared the colonies in rebellion

• He offered the colonies independence

• He accepted it and sought peace

• He sent more troops to support the colonies

Who was appointed as the commander of the Continental Army?

• John Adams

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

What was a major challenge for George Washington as the commander of the Continental Army?

• Training a militia into a formal army

• Lack of military experience

• Negotiating with British generals

• Securing funding from Congress

Which pamphlet helped to inspire the colonies towards independence?

• The Federalist Papers

• Common Sense

• The Rights of Man

• The Wealth of Nations

Who proposed the resolution to debate independence in Congress?

• John Hancock

• Benjamin Franklin

• Richard Henry Lee

• Thomas Paine

Who was primarily responsible for drafting the Declaration of Independence?

• George Washington

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

• John Adams