The House of Representatives consists of 435 delegates from across the country, as well as 5 delegates from U.S. territories. The number of delegates from each state is proportionate to the state's population. California has the most representatives with 53, followed by Texas, New York and Florida.http://www.centeroncongress.org/learn_about/feature/qa_members.html#why100 The House of Representatives and the Senate form Congress, the legislative branch of the government. Once elected, Representatives serve a two year term in office. The U.S. Constitution provides the guidelines which are used to run the House of Representatives. The Speaker of the House is voted for by all members of the House and is responsible for presiding over the House. This is generally the leader of the majority party. Each party also has its own elected leaders.The majority leader and the minority leader work to manage and facilitate the legislative activities of their respective parties. Each party also has a "Whip" who is delegated to ensure voting practices are followed properly. http://www.freelegaladvicehelp.com/constitution-law/house-of-representatives/Structure-Of-The-Us-House-Of-Representatives.html

In the 2010 House election results, the Republican party gained control of the House by securing 239 seats, while the Democratic party's seats dropped to 189. Seven of the House seats are either undecided or Independent. To be considered the majority, either party must have at least 218 seats. http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2010/results/main.results/#val=H

On September 5, 1774, the first Continental Congress convened. Delegates from twelve colonies met in Philadelphia at Carpenter's Hall. The thirteenth colony, Georgia, decided against sending anyone, as they were dependent on the help of British soldiers. Several historical political leaders were in attendance, including Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and George Washington. The second Continental Congress was held the following spring.http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h650.html

The House of Representatives has legislative powers that no other part of government has.

1. The House has the exclusive right to initiate revenue bills.
2. The House has the exclusive right to impeach officials.
3. The House has the exclusive right to declare and elect a president should an election be deadlocked.http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/teacher_lessons/3branches/14.htm