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The Pursuit of Equality
The 1st Continental Congress completely abolished the slave trade in 1774. Some northern states either completely abolished slavery or emancipated their slaves. No states south of Pennsylvania abolished slavery. This is significant because it was a step for African Americans equality. -
Creation of Declaration of Independence
Thomas Jefferson made a draft of the Declaration of Independence and then it was formally approved by Congress on July 4, 1776. It was significant because it explained why the Americans wanted to be independent. -
Creation of a Confederation
The 2nd Continental Congress selected a committee to make a draft constitution for the new nation. The result was called the Articles of Confederation. It was adopted by Congress in 1777: it convinced France that America had a real government. -
Formation of Alliance between French and Americans
Because of the fear that the French had about Americans uniting with Britain, the French joined the Americans to fight against Britain. This was significant because it was a factor that led to the victory of the Americans. -
Treaty of Fort Stanwix,
The Treaty of Fort Stanwix In 1784 was a treaty that the Iroquois were forced to sign; it was the first treaty between the United States and an Indian nation. The Iroquois gave most of their land to the Americans. This is significant because it shows once again how the Natives were constantly giving up what they once owned. -
Constitutional Convention
Alexander Hamilton called Congress to meet in Philadelphia the next year to revise the Articles of Confederation. 55 state representatives (except Rhode Island) were sent to Philadelphia to discuss how the government should operate. This resulted in George Washington being elected as the leader and in the creation of the Constitution which was significant.