Final answer:
The Continental Congress prepared for war and created an army before receiving George III's response to the Olive Branch Petition because conflicts had already begun and it was necessary to unite the colonies and show their determination for redress of grievances, leading to the eventual declaration of independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Continental Congress created an army and began preparing for war prior to receiving a response from George III to the Olive Branch Petition for several reasons. Initially, the conflicts at Lexington and Concord already set a precedent that hostilities between the colonies and British forces had escalated beyond diplomatic means. The Congress believed that creating an army would not only defend the colonies but also show their seriousness in addressing the grievances they had against British policies. Additionally, the formation of an army and the preparation for war served to unite the colonies, papering over regional differences and fostering a sense of nationalism. The decision for independence came after careful deliberation, as it became clear that reconciliation was not possible. Leaders then started the formation of new state governments based on the consent of the governed, which underscored the fight for independence, while they were more cautious to form a national government, fearing it might undermine the rights they fought for.