The Continental Association was established in 1774 by the First Continental Congress in response to British policies that the American colonies found oppressive. Its primary goal was to organize a collective boycott of British goods, aiming to pressure Britain into repealing the Intolerable Acts. This marked a significant step towards unity among the colonies. The association called for the formation of local committees to enforce the boycott and promote American-made products. It also encouraged the colonies to prepare for potential military action, laying the groundwork for future cooperation during the American Revolutionary War, which involved key figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.