The Continental Congress appointed George Washington commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in June 1775.
Congress created the Continental Army on June 14, 1775, after fighting had begun around Boston. John Adams nominated Washington, whose military experience and status as a Virginian were thought likely to unite the colonies behind a force that was becoming continental rather than merely local.
Washington was unanimously elected the next day. He accepted the command while declining a salary, although Congress later reimbursed his expenses. His appointment gave the revolutionary forces a single senior commander, even though individual colonies continued to supply troops and retain important military institutions.
Washington faced serious shortages of weapons, ammunition, trained officers, and money. He nevertheless led the army through the war, including the difficult campaigns around New York and New Jersey, the winter at Valley Forge, and the final victory at Yorktown. He remained commander-in-chief until December 1783, shortly after the war’s conclusion.