The Continental Army was established on June 14, 1775, a 250th-anniversary milestone linked to America250’s founding-era commemorations.
The Second Continental Congress created the army to coordinate military forces from the thirteen colonies during the Revolutionary War. Congress acted after fighting had already begun at Lexington and Concord in April 1775 and after the Battle of Bunker Hill in June.
George Washington was appointed commander in chief on June 15, one day after the army’s creation. The Continental Army served under congressional authority through the war and was formally disbanded after the Treaty of Paris ended the conflict in 1783.
June 14 is also observed annually as the birthday of the modern United States Army, which traces its institutional lineage to the Continental Army. The date is distinct from July 4, 1776, when Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.