The Boston Massacre occurred in 1780, six colonists were shot and killed by British Soldiers. Adams successfully defended these soldiers in court, although it was the unpopular view of the colonists. In 1774 Adams was chosen as a delegate to attend the First Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia. During this meeting Adams played a leading role in convincing the congress to strive to declare independence. After this first meeting of congress Adams was elected once again to participate in the Second Continental Congress in 1775. During this year congress created the continental army and John Adams nominated George Washington to be chosen as the commander. In 1776 John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin were chosen by congress