The Second Continental Congress Convenes 

In celebration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, we’re focusing on key events in the history of independence. Today’s post looks at the early months of the Second Continental Congress.  Before the First Continental Congress adjourned in October 1774, its members agreed to reconvene in Philadelphia on May 10, 1775. By the … Continue reading The Second Continental Congress Convenes 

Lexington and Concord: 22 Hours and a Shot Heard Around the World

In celebration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, the National Archives is highlighting key events in our nation’s journey to independence. This edition explores the first battles of the American Revolutionary War: Lexington and Concord. Today’s post comes from Tracy Baker, an intern in the National Archives Office of the Executive Secretariat. … Continue reading Lexington and Concord: 22 Hours and a Shot Heard Around the World

Celebrating American Women During the Bicentennial

As we look ahead to the nation’s 250th birthday, we’re looking back on the events celebrating our 200th. Today’s post, for Women’s History Month, looks back on a major exhibit at the National Archives during the bicentennial era.  To coincide with International Women’s Year and the Bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence, the National Archives … Continue reading Celebrating American Women During the Bicentennial

The First Continental Congress Convenes

In celebration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, we’re focusing on key events in the history of independence. Today’s post looks at the First Continental Congress, which met from September 5 to October 26, 1774, in Carpenters' Hall, Philadelphia. Following the Seven Years' War (1756–63), a cash-strapped Britain wanted to raise funds … Continue reading The First Continental Congress Convenes