The correct spelling of "continental army" is /kɑn.tə.nɛn.tl ˈɑr.mi/. The first syllable "con-" is pronounced with the same vowel as "o" in "hot." The second syllable "-ti-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound like in "pit." The stress is on the second syllable, "-nen-," which is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by a short "e" sound. The last two syllables "-tal army" are pronounced with a long "a" sound like in "army". The Continental Army played a crucial role in the American Revolution.
The term "Continental Army" refers to the armed forces that were established and organized by the Second Continental Congress in 1775 to fight against the British forces during the American Revolutionary War. This marked the birth of the United States' first national standing army.
The Continental Army was comprised primarily of volunteer soldiers from the thirteen American colonies who were united in their pursuit of independence from British rule. The army was under the command of General George Washington, who became a prominent figure and later the first President of the United States. Initially, the army faced numerous challenges, including a lack of training, resources, and experienced leadership. However, over time, it evolved into a formidable fighting force that played a crucial role in securing American independence.
The Continental Army fought a series of major battles, including the decisive victory at Saratoga in 1777, which prompted France to officially support the American cause. The army also endured through harsh winters and limited provisions during the infamous Valley Forge encampment in Pennsylvania. Despite these hardships, they persevered and ultimately achieved victory against the British forces in 1783, leading to the recognition of the United States as an independent nation.
The legacy of the Continental Army is significant in American history as it symbolizes the determination and sacrifice of early American patriots in their struggle for liberty and self-governance. The creation of the Continental Army laid the groundwork for the modern United States Army, which serves as the primary land-based branch of the U.S. Armed Forces today.
The word "continental" in "Continental Army" is derived from the term "continent" which refers to a landmass that is continuous or connected. The term "continental" is used to distinguish the army from the British Army during the American Revolutionary War. The Continental Army was the military force organized by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, composed of soldiers from the thirteen American colonies who opposed British rule. The name "Continental Army" was chosen to emphasize the connection and unity among the colonies in their fight for independence.