On June 15, 1775, the Second Continental Congress made one of the most consequential decisions in American history when it appointed George Washington as commander-in-chief of the newly established Continental Army. The appointment came just one day after Congress officially created the army to coordinate the colonial forces already fighting British troops around Boston. Washington's selection provided the struggling colonies with a respected military leader and helped unify the effort that would eventually lead to American independence.
The American colonies had been moving steadily toward open conflict with Great Britain throughout the early 1770s. Tensions reached a breaking point in April 1775 when British soldiers and colonial militia clashed at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts. These battles marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War. In the weeks that followed, thousands of militia members from various colonies gathered around Boston, effectively surrounding British forces stationed in the city.
Recognizing the need for a coordinated military effort, delegates at the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to discuss how to respond to the growing crisis. On June 14, Congress voted to create the Continental Army, transforming the collection of local militias into a unified fighting force. The next challenge was selecting a commander capable of leading the army through what promised to be a difficult and uncertain conflict.
George Washington quickly emerged as the leading candidate. A wealthy Virginia planter and delegate to the Continental Congress, Washington had gained valuable military experience during the French and Indian War two decades earlier. Although he had never commanded an army of the size he would soon lead, he possessed qualities that inspired confidence among his fellow delegates. He was disciplined, respected, and widely regarded as a man of strong character.
Political considerations also played an important role in his selection. Much of the fighting had thus far occurred in New England, particularly Massachusetts. By choosing Washington, a Virginian, Congress demonstrated that the conflict involved all thirteen colonies rather than being merely a regional dispute. His appointment helped foster unity among the colonies at a time when cooperation was essential for survival.
When Washington accepted the position, he did so with humility. He acknowledged the immense responsibility before him and expressed doubts about his qualifications. Nevertheless, he committed himself fully to the cause. Over the next eight years, Washington would guide the Continental Army through numerous hardships, including shortages of supplies, harsh winters, and battlefield defeats. His perseverance and leadership helped keep the revolutionary cause alive during its darkest moments.
Washington's appointment on June 15, 1775, proved to be a turning point in the struggle for independence. Under his command, the Continental Army evolved from a loosely organized collection of militia units into a force capable of challenging one of the world's most powerful empires. His leadership culminated in the American victory at Yorktown in 1781 and ultimately helped secure independence for the United States.
More than two centuries later, Washington's appointment remains a defining moment in American history, symbolizing leadership, unity, and determination in the pursuit of freedom.
Use This Figure in the Classroom
Discussion Questions
- Why do you think the Continental Congress chose George Washington, a Virginian, to lead an army that was primarily fighting in New England?
- What qualities are important in a military leader during a time of crisis? Which of those qualities did Washington demonstrate?
- How might the American Revolution have unfolded differently if Congress had selected a different commander-in-chief?
Classroom Activity: Congress Chooses a Commander
Divide students into small groups and assign each group the role of delegates to the Second Continental Congress in June 1775. Have students research George Washington and other potential military leaders of the era. Each group should discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates and then vote on whom they would appoint commander-in-chief. Afterward, compare the class's choices with the historical decision and discuss why Washington was selected.
Debate Prompt
Resolved: The Continental Congress appointed George Washington primarily for political reasons rather than military experience.
Have one side argue that Washington's Virginia background helped unite the colonies, while the other side argues that his military service during the French and Indian War made him the most qualified candidate.
Writing Assignment Idea
Imagine you are a delegate attending the Second Continental Congress on June 15, 1775. Write a letter to your family explaining why George Washington should—or should not—be appointed commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Use historical facts to support your position.
Printable Quote
“I do not think myself equal to the command I am honored with.”
— George Washington, upon accepting command of the Continental Army, June 1775