Final answer:
The First Continental Congress was convened to address the Intolerable Acts and to assert the rights of the colonies, forming the Continental Association. The Second Continental Congress initially attempted to reconcile with Britain but ended up leading the Revolutionary War effort and declaring independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Actions of the First and Second Continental Congresses
The First Continental Congress was convened in response to the Intolerable Acts, with representatives from the colonies drafting a list of grievances and a statement of the rights of colonists. The Congress also approved the Declaration of Rights and Grievances and formed the Continental Association to enforce boycotts against British goods.
The Second Continental Congress initially sought reconciliation with Great Britain, drafting the Olive Branch Petition. However, following skirmishes at Lexington and Concord, it took on a greater role, eventually leading to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, thus marking the American colonies' decision to seek independence from British rule.