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. Formed primarily from colonial militias, this army played a crucial role in uniting the colonies and providing a structured military response to British aggression, which was essential for the struggle for independence and shaped the future governance of the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Continental Army was officially established on June 14, 1775, and marked a significant shift from local militia forces to a unified military structure.
2. George Washington was appointed as commander-in-chief due to his military experience and ability to unite various colonial factions.
3. The army faced significant challenges such as lack of training, insufficient supplies, and desertion but managed to adapt through alliances and strategic victories.
4. The Continental Army's successful campaigns, including key victories at Saratoga and Yorktown, were pivotal in securing French support, which helped turn the tide of war against Britain.
5. The legacy of the Continental Army influenced the development of the U.S. military and contributed to discussions about federalism in establishing a national defense force after independence.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the Continental Army reflect the political and social climate of the colonies in 1775?
  • The formation of the Continental Army was a direct response to increasing tensions with Britain, showcasing a shift towards collective action among the colonies. The Second Continental Congress recognized that local militias alone were insufficient to confront British forces effectively. By creating a unified army, they aimed to foster a sense of unity among diverse colonial interests while establishing a more organized military structure that would be capable of sustained conflict.
• Analyze how George Washington’s leadership impacted the effectiveness and morale of the Continental Army throughout the Revolutionary War.
  • George Washington's leadership was crucial for maintaining morale and cohesion within the Continental Army. His ability to inspire confidence through both successful military strategies and his commitment to soldier welfare helped build trust among troops. Washington's emphasis on discipline and training transformed a group of poorly organized militias into a more effective fighting force, contributing significantly to crucial victories and ultimately shaping public support for independence.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Continental Army's creation on the structure of military governance in post-revolutionary America.
  • The establishment of the Continental Army set a precedent for military organization and governance that influenced the United States' approach to national defense. After gaining independence, discussions around creating a standing army highlighted tensions between state sovereignty and federal authority. The experiences gained from operating under the Continental Army laid groundwork for future military policy, emphasizing the need for a professional military force while balancing concerns over potential tyranny from centralized power, ultimately reflected in debates during the drafting of the Constitution.

Related terms

Second Continental Congress: A convention of delegates from the thirteen colonies that met in 1775, which managed the colonial war effort and moved incrementally towards independence.

George Washington: The commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, appointed by the Second Continental Congress, who became a key leader in the American Revolutionary War and later the first President of the United States.

Militia: A military force composed of ordinary citizens who are trained to fight in emergencies, often seen as a precursor to a formal army and an essential component in the early defense of the colonies.