The Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington commander-in-chief of the Continental Army on June 15, 1775.
Congress had voted to establish the Continental Army the previous day while meeting in Philadelphia. The new army combined forces already gathered around Boston with troops from other colonies. Delegates needed a leader who could represent more than one region and command a force created for a continental cause.
John Adams nominated Washington, a Virginia planter and veteran of the French and Indian War. Washington’s military experience and his presence in uniform helped make him a unifying choice, even though the army initially consisted largely of New England troops.
Washington accepted the appointment without a salary, requesting only reimbursement for expenses. He assumed command near Boston on July 3, 1775, and led the Continental Army throughout the Revolutionary War. His wartime leadership later contributed to his selection as the first U.S. president.