Common Sense
Who wrote Common Sense?
Thomas Paine
What major military decision did the Congress make soon after convening?
It created the Continental Army to fight against Britain.
Who was Richard Henry Lee?
Richard Henry Lee was a delegate from Virginia to the Second Continental Congress and a strong supporter of independence.
What was Lord Dunmore’s Proclamation?
A 1775 declaration by Virginia’s royal governor, Lord Dunmore, offering freedom to enslaved people who fled their Patriot masters and joined the British army.
Why was Thomas Paine’s Common Sense influential?
It argued plainly and persuasively for independence.
Who was chosen to command the Continental Army?
George Washington.
What important resolution did Richard Henry Lee introduce on June 7, 1776?
He introduced the Lee Resolution, proposing that the colonies declare independence from Britain.
Why did Lord Dunmore issue the proclamation?
To weaken the Patriot rebellion by disrupting the colonial labor force and gaining additional manpower for the British.
How did Paine describe America’s relationship with Britain in Common Sense?
He said Britain treated America as a source of profit, not as an equal partner.
What was the purpose of the Olive Branch Petition?
It was a final attempt by moderates to seek peace and reconciliation with King George III.
Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston were selected to draft a declaration of independence. What were they called?
Committee of Five.
Who was eligible for freedom under Dunmore’s Proclamation?
Enslaved men belonging to Patriot (rebellious) masters who were physically able to bear arms for the British.
How did Paine criticize the idea that Britain protected the colonies?
He stated Britain acted in its own interests, and conflicts involving the colonies were caused by British policies.
How did King George III respond to the Olive Branch Petition?
He rejected it and declared the colonies in open rebellion.
Why was Thomas Jefferson chosen to write the first draft of the Declaration of Independence?
He was known for his excellent writing skills, and other members, especially Adams, believed he could articulate the case effectively.
How did Patriot colonists react to the proclamation?
They were outraged, seeing it as an attack on their property and a threat designed to spark slave revolts.
What was Paine’s attitude toward the idea of monarchy?
He rejected it completely, arguing that no one is born to rule others.
Where did the Second Continental Congress meet?
Philadelphia
Why did Congress remove Jefferson’s passage condemning the slave trade from the final Declaration?
Several southern colonies and some northern delegates opposed it, fearing it would divide the colonies at a crucial moment.
How are you going to do on this test?
Gonna ace it, Mr. VanBrunt!