Final answer:
The Continental Congress affected the relationship between the colonists and Britain by collectively vocalizing their grievances, advocating for their rights, and escalating the conflict, which eventually led to the American Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Continental Congress significantly affected the relationship between the colonists and Britain in two critical ways. First, it solidified the colonies' collective resistance to British tyranny. Initially, many colonists regarded themselves as British subjects, but the establishment of the Continental Congress began distancing the colonies from the authority of Britain. The Congress played a pivotal role in voicing the colonists' grievances against Britain and advocating for the colonies' rights under British law.
Second, the Continental Congress escalated the conflict with Britain, ultimately leading to the American Revolution. The First Continental Congress convened as a reaction to Britain's imposition of the Intolerable Acts, which were widely seen by the colonists as oppressive. Their collective action highlighted their disaffection and resulted in a boycott of British goods. The Second Continental Congress officially declared American independence from Britain, marking the start of a revolutionary war against British rule.
Learn more about Continental Congress