Continental Army

Definition

The Continental Army was the military force established by the Second Continental Congress in 1775 to fight against British rule during the American Revolutionary War. It represented the first organized national army of the colonies, composed of soldiers from various colonies united under a single command, and was crucial in achieving American independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Continental Army was officially formed on June 14, 1775, to coordinate the military efforts of the colonies against Britain.
2. George Washington was appointed as the commander-in-chief and faced numerous challenges, including lack of training and supplies for his troops.
3. The army's first major test was at the Siege of Boston, where they laid siege to British forces and eventually forced their withdrawal.
4. The success at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777 was a turning point for the Continental Army, leading to French support in the war.
5. The army underwent significant training and reorganization during the winter at Valley Forge, which helped improve discipline and effectiveness.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the Continental Army change the dynamics of the American Revolutionary War?
  • The establishment of the Continental Army marked a significant shift from disorganized colonial militias to a formalized military structure. This transition allowed for better coordination among troops from different colonies and enabled strategic planning on a larger scale. Under George Washington's leadership, the army could mobilize resources more effectively, leading to notable successes such as the Siege of Boston and ultimately winning crucial battles that turned the tide of the war.
• Evaluate the impact of foreign alliances on the effectiveness of the Continental Army during key battles.
  • Foreign alliances, particularly with France, significantly enhanced the capabilities of the Continental Army. The entry of French forces provided essential military support, resources, and training that bolstered American troops during critical moments like the Siege of Yorktown. This partnership helped elevate morale within the army and demonstrated to other nations that an independent America was a feasible outcome, which further encouraged international support against Britain.
• Analyze how George Washington’s leadership influenced both the morale and tactical strategies employed by the Continental Army throughout the Revolutionary War.
  • George Washington’s leadership was instrumental in shaping both morale and tactical strategies within the Continental Army. His ability to inspire troops through hardships, such as during winter encampments at Valley Forge, helped maintain commitment among soldiers. Strategically, Washington adapted tactics based on lessons learned from battles, often employing guerrilla warfare techniques against British forces. His leadership not only united disparate colonial factions but also established principles that would guide military conduct in future American conflicts.

Related terms

George Washington: The commander-in-chief of the Continental Army who played a pivotal role in leading American forces to victory and later became the first President of the United States.

Second Continental Congress: A convention of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies that met from 1775 to 1781, which managed the colonial war effort and moved incrementally towards independence.

Militia: Local volunteer forces made up of ordinary citizens who were trained to respond to emergencies, often serving alongside the Continental Army during key battles.