First Continental Congress 1774: Colonial Unity — Reading Comprehension

The First Continental Congress met in September 1774 in Philadelphia to address growing colonial concerns about British rule. The immediate problem was the British Parliament’s passage of the Intolerable Acts, which severely restricted self-government in Massachusetts as punishment for the Boston Tea Party. These harsh laws threatened the autonomy of all thirteen colonies, not just Massachusetts. As a result, delegates from twelve colonies gathered to discuss a unified response. Their meeting marked a turning point in the colonial struggle for rights and self-determination.

The delegates represented a wide range of colonial interests and backgrounds. Some, such as John Adams and Samuel Adams of Massachusetts, argued for a strong, collective stand against British policies. Others, like Joseph Galloway of Pennsylvania, hoped for reconciliation with Britain and feared that extreme actions could lead to war. This diversity led to complex debates. The Congress had to balance calls for resistance with the desire to maintain ties to the British Empire. Despite these differences, most delegates agreed that unity was necessary to protect colonial rights.

One major challenge was deciding how to respond to the Intolerable Acts. Some delegates favored an immediate boycott of British goods, while others worried this would hurt colonial merchants. Eventually, the Congress endorsed the Continental Association, a formal agreement to halt most trade with Britain until the Acts were repealed. This solution aimed to pressure Parliament through economic means rather than violence. According to the Congress’s resolution: “We do for ourselves, and the inhabitants of the several colonies... solemnly bind ourselves and our constituents, under the ties of virtue, honor, and love of our country, to observe and carry into execution” the boycott. This primary source shows the seriousness and commitment of the colonies to collective action.

The Congress also sent a respectful petition to King George III, outlining colonial grievances and requesting the restoration of their rights. However, many colonists doubted the king would support them over Parliament. Meanwhile, the Congress called for another meeting in 1775 if their demands were not met, signaling that this was not a temporary alliance but the beginning of ongoing cooperation. This decision demonstrated both hope for peaceful resolution and preparedness for further conflict.

British leaders, on the other hand, saw the Congress as an illegal assembly. Loyalists in the colonies, who remained loyal to the crown, worried that radical action would bring chaos and hurt trade. In contrast, Patriots believed unity was their only hope for justice. The Congress’s actions sparked debate across the colonies. Some people worried about losing British protection and economic stability, while others believed colonial liberty was worth the risk.

The significance of the First Continental Congress lies in its creation of a unified front among the colonies. By committing to collective resistance, the Congress set the stage for later revolutionary action. It also established important precedents, such as intercolonial cooperation and the use of economic pressure as a political tool. Although the Congress did not declare independence, it helped shift colonial identity toward a shared American cause. This transformation was not inevitable but the result of difficult choices, debate, and compromise.

Interesting Fact: The First Continental Congress included future presidents George Washington and John Adams, who would play crucial roles in shaping the new nation.

When did the First Continental Congress meet?

What city hosted the Congress?

Which colony was punished by the Intolerable Acts?

Why did some delegates fear boycotts?

What was the main goal of the petition?

What did the Continental Association do?

The Congress declared independence in 1774.

What is a 'petition'?