Which petition did the Second Continental Congress send to the king to pledge loyalty and request intervention in favor of colonial rights?

The Olive Branch Petition is the correct answer because it represents an attempt by the Second Continental Congress to maintain a relationship with the British monarchy while addressing the grievances of the American colonies. Adopted in July 1775, the petition expressed loyalty to King George III and sought his intervention to protect the colonists' rights following increasing tensions with Britain. It reflected a desire for reconciliation rather than outright rebellion at that point in time, making it a significant step in the political evolution of the colonies.

In contrast, the First Continental Congress Petition primarily addressed specific concerns rather than employing a conciliatory tone towards the king. The Declaration of Independence, issued later in 1776, signified a complete break from British authority and explicitly articulated the colonies' intention to be free and independent states. The Suffolk Resolves were a set of resolutions that called for resistance to British oppression but did not convey a message of loyalty or request intervention from the king. Thus, the Olive Branch Petition stands out as the document seeking peace and cooperation while affirming colonial rights.