The+Continental+Army

 The Continental Army
by: Raena The colonies originally had a specific militia for each colony.The Second Continental Congress decided they needed to organize an army. Fifteen thousand people volunteered- mostly, farmers,merchants, and workers.They volunteered for one year at a time.George Washington was going to be the commander in chief.A small navy was made up of fishing and trade ships with cannons.Because Congress had little money soldiers were forced to provide their own clothing and supplies.Compared to 45,000 British soldiers and their 270 warships the Continental Army seemed tiny and helpless.Their upside to this is that they were more determined than ever. Women were a big help-they mended clothes and made new ones,cooked and cared for the sick, some even fought! By July food, tents and supplies for war all became scarce.Soldiers weren't properly clothed and many were sick or injured.The strategies this army used had to be effective because of it's size. The Continental Army used hit and run tactics which involved surprise attacking followed by retreating.They also used guerilla tactics which were hiding and shooting men one by one before someone noticed what was going on. At some points the Continental Army looked hopeless but at others it looked as though they might win.Eventually the Continental Army did win.