Final answer:
Before declaring war, colonists petitioned for redress through the Olive Branch Petition, fostered inter-colony cooperation, and prepared for defense by arming themselves and forming a continental army.
Step-by-step explanation:
The colonists attempted several measures before resorting to declaring war on Great Britain. Firstly, they sought redress through petitions, most notably through efforts like the Olive Branch Petition, which expressed loyalty to the crown but condemned the coercive policies. Despite these petitions, the British government responded with further injuries, leading to escalated tensions.
Secondly, the colonies attempted to affect change by establishing inter-colony cooperation, as seen in the formation of the Committees of Correspondence and the Continental Congresses. The First Continental Congress articulated a declaration of American rights, aiming to compile grievances and negotiate a more equitable relationship with Britain.
Lastly, in response to increasing British aggression and an unsatisfactory response from the government, particularly after the events at Lexington and Concord, the colonists took defensive measures. Prior to outright rebellion, they began to arm themselves and prepare for possible conflict, even creating a continental army with George Washington as commander-in-chief.