To reaffirm colonists' allegiance to King George III, but not to Parliament, the Second Continental Congress sent the Olive Branch Petition to him.
The Olive Branch Petition was the written note that the Second Continental Congress of Philadelphia sent in May of 1775 to England. In it, allegiance was assured to George III, and wishes of prompt reconciliation were expressed.
The wishes of the settlers were not fulfilled because the King refused to receive the Olive Branch Petition and declared that the colonies were in a state of rebellion. In turn, Parliament banned all trade or dealings with the Thirteen Colonies.
