These congresses created a government structure, issued bills of credit to pay for the movement, and organized an army for defense, in preparation for the state of North Carolina.

[4][5] This congress, which included representatives of all 35 counties and nine towns (also called districts), officially established itself as the highest governmental body in the province after British Governor Josiah Martin had fled, ending royal government rule.

The last Province of North Carolina General Assembly had met on April 4–8, 1775 before Governor Martin disbanded its House of Burgesses.

[3][4] The congress divided the state into 6 military districts for purposes of organizing militia and for determining representation on a new Provincial Council.

The delegates also elected members of the military district Committees of Safety "for their common defence against their Enemies, for the Security of their Liberties and properties".