Pennsylvania Provincial Conference facts for kids
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Date | June 18–25, 1776 |
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Venue | Carpenters' Hall |
Location | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
Type | Provincial Congress |
Cause | Outbreak of the American Revolutionary War |
Outcome | Pennsylvania declared its independence from Great Britain Procedure set for electing delegates to state constitutional convention |
The Pennsylvania Provincial Conference was an important meeting held in Philadelphia from June 18 to June 25, 1776. It took place at Carpenters' Hall. This conference was a special gathering of leaders from different parts of Pennsylvania.
About 97 delegates attended this meeting. Their main goals were to decide if Pennsylvania should support independence from Great Britain. They also planned how to create a new government for Pennsylvania.
Contents
Key Decisions at the Conference
The delegates at the conference made several big decisions. These choices changed Pennsylvania's future forever. They helped set the stage for the American Revolution.
Declaring Independence
The conference officially declared Pennsylvania's independence from the British Empire. This was a huge step. It meant Pennsylvania was no longer under British rule. This moment marked the birth of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Organizing the Militia
The delegates also decided to prepare for war. They mobilized the Pennsylvania militia. This was a group of citizen soldiers. They were ready to fight in the American Revolutionary War.
Planning a New Government
Another key decision was to organize elections. These elections would choose delegates for a special meeting. This meeting was called a constitutional convention. Its job was to write the first Pennsylvania Constitution of 1776. This new constitution would set up Pennsylvania's new government.
Impact on American Independence
Pennsylvania was the last of the Thirteen Colonies to declare independence. The actions of this conference were very important. They greatly influenced public opinion across America.
The conference's decisions helped pave the way. Soon after, the Declaration of Independence was issued. This happened at the Continental Congress. The Pennsylvania Provincial Conference showed that the colonies were united in their desire for freedom.
Who Attended the Conference?
Many important people from different counties in Pennsylvania attended this conference. These delegates represented their local communities. They came together to make big decisions for the future of Pennsylvania. Their names are recorded in history for their role in this important event.