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

Study for the AMSCO AP United States History Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Get ready for your APUSH exam!

The Olive Branch Petition is the correct answer, as it was a formal request sent by the Second Continental Congress to King George III in July 1775. In this petition, the Congress expressed loyalty to the Crown while simultaneously appealing for the protection of their rights and grievances stemming from British policies. The signers hoped to resolve differences peacefully, reflecting a desire to maintain their status as British subjects rather than pushing for independence at that time.

In the context of the other options, the First Continental Congress Petition was a separate document that addressed colonial grievances prior to the early conflict of the Revolutionary War. The Declaration of Independence, on the other hand, was a formal proclamation declaring the colonies' independence from Britain and was adopted in 1776, explicitly rejecting the King's authority rather than seeking reconciliation. Lastly, the Suffolk Resolves were a series of resolutions adopted in 1774 pertaining to resistance against British rule, but they did not constitute a direct appeal for loyalty or intervention to the King as the Olive Branch Petition did.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy