1. Declaration of Independence: The most notable achievement of the Second Continental Congress was the unanimous adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Declaration proclaimed the thirteen colonies' freedom and sovereignty from British rule and outlined their justifications for revolution.
2. Articles of Confederation: The Second Continental Congress also drafted and approved the Articles of Confederation in 1777, which served as the first constitution of the United States. Although it established a framework for a central government, the Articles of Confederation had significant weaknesses and would later be replaced by the U.S. Constitution.
3. Foreign Diplomacy: The Second Continental Congress played a crucial role in securing foreign support for the American Revolution. They sent diplomatic missions to France, Spain, and other European nations to gain alliances and financial aid. The most significant diplomatic achievement was the Treaty of Alliance with France in 1778, which provided critical military and financial assistance to the American cause.