Final answer:
The First Continental Congress met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1774 and represented colonial opposition to British policies. They drafted a list of grievances and affirmations of their rights, with initial attempts at reconciliation, but evolving towards independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The First Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from September 5 through October 26, 1774. Attended by 56 delegates representing 12 of the Thirteen Colonies, excluding Georgia, this assembly was the embodiment of colonial unity against British policy. The general point of view among these delegates ranged from moderate proposals of compromise, such as Joseph Galloway's plan to establish a Grand Council and President General, to more radical notions of increased separation from British oversight. However, under the shadow of the repressive Intolerable Acts, the Congress focused on drafting a formal response including a list of grievances and a assertion of colonists' rights. While initially seeking reconciliation, subsequent events leading up to and beyond the Second Continental Congress reflected a shift in sentiment, ultimately resulting in the Declaration of Independence and American fight for sovereignty.