A Time For Change

The Americas created a government known as the Continental Congress to address the deteriorating relationship between Britain and the colonies. The first and second Continental Congress were shaped by disputes between moderates, radicals and conservatives. Conservatives favored a return to the relationship that existed before the French and Indian war, Moderates maintained that events had not yet necissated a break from Britain, and Radicals favored immediate independence. Radicals were overall the most effective and persuasive on achieving their goals.
Conservatives were comfortable with the relationship that existed befor the French and Indian war. They believe that the answers to problems such as territory and independence was to go back to the way it was before the war. Before the war the right to independence was not as big of an issue as after. Britain controlled everything with no questions asked. Conservatives were not ready to be pulled from their mothers arms and forced to walk.
Moderates felt that the French and Indian war which lasted a total of seven years was not a good enough reason to see their own independence. Therefore to be controlled by Britain was ok with them. To have their voices silenced and their freedom limited was just fine.
Radicals did not appreciate the lack of independence due to Britain. They felt that independence was needed immediatly. They showed their desire for independence by uprising and revolting against the British country. One example of this would be the attack on the import of tea due to the added tax. Even though Britain had lowered the cost on tea, American tea drinkers felt that this was a shaddy attempt to force them to except British principles. To them principles were far more important than price. One thing that the continental congress drew up was a declaration of rights, making their move toward independence.
Conservatives, Moderates, and Radicals each helped shape and form the Continental Congress. Some were ready for independence while others weren't. Radicals were the most persuasive and effective because no matter what anyone said....It was time for a change!