The Continental Congress at a Glance

The Continental Congress was comprised of a group of delegates. Each group of delegates constituted a representative for their respective colonies in America. All of these delegates came together to form what is considered to be the first governing body of America. The Continental Congress was the governing body of America during the American Revolution. This was a critical time for the nation because it was when America was declaring independence from England and was formally trying to establish itself as a nation.
Over the span of fifteen years from 1774 to 1789, the Continental Congress met together to discuss action and formal planning for what would become the United States. The first time the Continental Congress met was in 1774. During this time, America was engaged in separation from England; one that many of the colonists had yet to fully accept. However, though there was still loyalty to the motherland, there was a desire to have England treat the colonies fairly and justly. At this particular meeting, there were delegates from all but one of the colonies.
The second time the Continental Congress met was in 1775. At this point in time more of the colonists and delegates had resolved that there needed to be a total separation between England and America. Only a few of the individuals still hung on to the hope of reconciliation. From here, progressive steps were made during the Continental Congress to build up an army and to plan legal emancipation from England. Later, the Continental Congress would form a government for America.