The Second Continental Congress
John Trumbull's The Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776, commissioned in 1817.
Notably, historians have argued that what this famous painting depicts is not in fact historically accurate to July 4, but more akin to the events on June 28 (when the Committee of Five would have presented their first draft of the Declaration of Independence).
Historian David McCullough writes, “no such ceremonial moment with all present took place," and cites other inconsistencies — read more.
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The body of delegates that governed the Thirteen Colonies and, later, the United States
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Balanced the interests of the different colonies
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Established itself as the official colonial liaison to Great Britain
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After the United States declared independence, became the de facto national government of the country, and negotiated diplomatic agreements with international bodies
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Accomplishments
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Oversaw the war effort in the American Revolutionary War
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Adopted the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation
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Secured an alliance with France
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First session: May 1775
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The American Revolutionary War had already started, with the Battles of Lexington and Concord
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12 of the 13 colonies were represented
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Georgia did not initially send delegates, but changed their mind as the Revolutionary War escalated
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Disbandment: March 1781
Delegates to the Second Continental Congress
Usually, about 60 present at any given time
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The total number fluctuated over time — attendance was inconsistent, and turnover rate was high
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Most delegates had work, responsibilities, and families at home
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Wives/children typically could not join the delegates in Philadelphia because of household duties: running the farm, childcare (for wives), education and schooling (for children)
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Also, certain members were voted in and out, died, or left on their own accord
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Between 1774 and 1789, a total of 342 individuals served in the three Congresses (First Continental, Second Continental, and Confederation)
John Hancock was named President of the Second Continental Congress
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He was experienced, having often presided over legislative bodies and town meetings in Massachusetts
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His wealth and social standing inspired the confidence of moderate delegates
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His association with Boston radicals made him acceptable to other radicals
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His authority was mostly limited to that of a presiding officer