To make the rebellion a truly continental endeavor, the participation of Virginia-the wealthiest and most populous colony-was essential. Washington's selection made sense for several reasons. Washington's unanimous choice signified the beginning of a process to create a national military force. An army drawn from all of the colonies with a Virginia commander would make the Massachusetts cause a struggle shared by the entire continent. ![]() Those unfamiliar with his politics and reputation sounded out the Virginia delegation for information.Ī need for unity and common cause among the colonies motivated delegates to consider Washington. Washington commanded a loyal following among many of his fellow delegates. ![]() Others thought that an outsider in command would truly make the militia a "Continental" army. Several New England congressmen believed that their officers should command the army surrounding Boston. The New England forces lacked guns, ammunition, training, and most importantly leadership. The selection of a commander of the militia forces gathering outside Boston after the battles of Lexington and Concord constituted an important priority for the Congress. One of Washington's first acts included designing a buff and blue colored uniform sewn by an indentured servant at Mount Vernon named Andrew Judge Washington wore it throughout his time in Philadelphia. Washington had a respected military reputation based on his time serving in the French and Indian War, lending him respectability and a certain level of expertise. ![]() Immediately he was placed on several committees that handled military preparedness in the colonies. George Washington arrived at the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia on May 9, 1775.
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