The Speech of the Revolution

Patrick Henry's speech is

or ought to be, known by heart by every American school-boy. It was delivered in the Virginia House of Delegates, March 23, 1775, before the battles of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill. His impassioned peroration left. not only his audience, but also the nation, in the white heat of decision and determination. He said:

"The war is inevitable and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come! It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry peace, peace, but there is no peace. The war has actually begun. The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms. Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"

The Speech of the Revolution

Patrick Henry's speech is, or ought to be, known by heart by every American school-boy. It was delivered in the Virginia House of Delegates, March 23, 1775, before the battles of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill. His impassioned peroration left not only his audience, but also the nation, in the white heat of decision and determination. He said:

"The war is inevitable and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come! It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry peace, peace, but there is no peace. The war has actually begun. The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms. Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"

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