Patrick Henry is one of the most famous voices of the American Revolution. A Virginian, his first trip to the north was for business to the city of New York in 1770.
Henry was known in his own time for his powerful speeches and his unwavering commitment to liberty. But did you know that later in life he opposed the United States Constitution? Did you know that during the political crisis of 1798/99, George Washington wrote to Patrick Henry and asked him to save the nation?
In honor of the 250th anniversary of Patrick Henry’s most famous speech, “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death,” the Ben Franklin’s World podcast investigates the life and work of Patrick Henry.
Henry’s speech, in defense of raising a militia independent of royal authority, is believed to have been:
“If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! 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 is 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!”
You can listen to the podcast about Patrick Henry here.
Ben Franklin’s World is an award-winning podcast. It’s for people who love history and for those who want to know more about the historical people and events that have impacted and shaped our world. Each episode features an interview with a historian who shares their unique insights into our early American past.
Listen to more history podcasts here.
Illustrations, from above: Detail form a portrait of Patrick Henry, ca. 1891 by George Bagby Matthews (1857 – 1943) after Thomas Sully (1783-1872); and “Give me liberty, or give me death!” from a 1876 lithograph by Currier and Ives.
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