September 17, 1774

The Continental Congress endorses the Suffolk Resolves, adopting measures first proposed in Massachusetts that call for resistance to the Coercive Acts. The resolves are approved and circulated among the colonies.

The document urges noncompliance with certain laws, supports local organization, and calls for preparation to defend colonial rights. By taking up the resolves, Congress gives broader backing to actions already underway in Massachusetts.

Local resistance is taken up as a common position.