On this day, March 23, 1775, at a meeting of the Colony delegates in Richmond Virginia, Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me Liberty or give me death” speech in St. John’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia.
After over a decade of struggle with the crushing economic and political policies of the British under King George III, many citizens in the American colonies felt the need to resist oppression from an overbearing and ever encroaching governmental rule.
Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it.
Henry spoke without any notes in a voice that became louder and louder, climaxing with the now famous ending. His stirring speech swayed the vote and was most likely was the deciding factor in committing Virginia troops to fight the British.
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!
Less than one month after Patrick Henry’s speech, the Battle of Lexington and Concord took place marking the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
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