The History of the United States, 2nd Edition Season 1 Episode 47 Congress Takes Command

The History of the United States, 2nd Edition season 1 episode 47 is titled "Congress Takes Command." This episode covers the period of the American Revolution when Congress took a more prominent role in leading the colonies.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the early days of the revolution. The colonists had been fighting against British rule for several years but had yet to fully organize themselves. The Continental Army was in desperate need of supplies and funding, and many soldiers were unpaid and ill-equipped. The British, on the other hand, had a well-trained and well-funded army and seemed to have the upper hand in the conflict.

Things started to change when Congress began to take a more active role in the war effort. In the summer of 1775, Congress created the Continental Army and appointed George Washington as its commander-in-chief. Congress also took steps to raise money for the war effort by issuing paper money and securing loans from foreign countries.

Despite these efforts, the Continental Army faced significant challenges. Soldiers were often forced to go without supplies or pay, and morale was low. The British, meanwhile, had a clear advantage in terms of military strength and resources.

The turning point came in 1777 when Congress took a more decisive role in the war effort. The episode describes how Congress formulated a plan to divide the British forces by attacking them in different locations. One army, led by General Horatio Gates, would move north from New York and attack British forces in Canada. Another army, led by George Washington, would move south and attack British forces in Pennsylvania.

The plan was risky, but it paid off. The British were caught off guard, and both Gates and Washington achieved significant victories. The episode describes how these victories were crucial in turning the tide of the war, boosting morale, and securing much-needed support from foreign countries.

Congress continued to take an active role in the war effort, approving the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and creating the Articles of Confederation in 1777. The episode details how these documents helped to solidify the new nation's identity and set the stage for a more unified government in the years to come.

The episode also touches on the role of political leaders such as Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, who played crucial roles in securing support from foreign countries and negotiating peace treaties.

Overall, "Congress Takes Command" provides a detailed and engaging look at a pivotal moment in American history. The episode highlights the importance of a strong and unified government in times of war and illustrates the critical role that Congress played in the early years of the American Revolution.