c) United Colonies

Before September 9, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the name “United States of America,” the name used was the “United Colonies.” This term reflected the collective identity of the thirteen British colonies in North America, which were in the midst of a struggle for independence from British rule. The adoption of the new name, “United States of America,” marked a significant moment in American history, symbolizing the colonies’ united resolve to form an independent nation. This change in name signified a shift from a group of separate colonies to a unified national entity with a shared purpose and identity.