The Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in 1775.
Congress created the Continental Army on June 14, 1775, during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Washington was appointed its commander-in-chief the next day, June 15, after John Adams nominated him. His military experience and Virginia background helped make him a unifying choice for colonies from different regions.
Washington had served in the French and Indian War and later commanded Virginia’s colonial militia. He accepted the post while declining a salary, although Congress reimbursed his expenses. He formally took command of the army outside Boston on July 3, 1775.
Washington led the Continental Army through the war, including the 1781 Yorktown campaign. After independence was secured, he resigned his military commission in December 1783, a decision that strengthened the idea of civilian authority over the army.