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Show By CONGRESSMAN ALLAN HOWE On March 20, 1776, the Continental Con-tinental Army completed its occupation of Boston. American forces had held Boston under seige for nearly 11 months before forcing 6,000 British troops under the command com-mand of General Howe and 1,000 Boston loyalists to evacuate the city on March 17. IN AN effort to harass British Bri-tish shipping, while at the same time bringing in need supplies, the Congress, on March 23, authorized priva-tyering, priva-tyering, and began issuing letters of marque and reprisal. During the month of March, 1776, what is said to be the first independent government within the recognized boun- : daries of the colonies was established. es-tablished. Charleston, South Carolina, set up an independent indepen-dent government under a temporary local constitution which was to be in effect until a settlement could be reached with Britain. John Rutledge was selected president. , i ON JUNE 28, 1776, this j government successfully ' defended Charleston against the British army, and thus freed the South from attack for nearly three years. |