Introduction The delegates to the Second Continental Congress included some of the greatest political leaders in America. Among those attending were John and Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee, and George Washington—all delegates to the First Continental Congress held in 1774. Several distinguished new delegates came as well. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most accomplished and respected individuals in the colonies. John Hancock of Massachusetts was one of the wealthiest colonists. Virginia's Thomas Jefferson, only 32 years old, had already acquired a reputation as a brilliant thinker and writer. With great minds comes great—but perhaps not parallel—convictions. In this activity, you will learn that independence from Great Britain was not a foregone conclusion when the delegates met in 1775.
Destination Title: Declaring Independence: The Inside Story
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