Patrick Henry Essay

Essay about Biography of Patrick Henry
Biography of Patrick Henry
Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? These noble,
forthright words were spoken by a fiery young patriot and great orator who had dedicated his life to
the goal of winning rights for the people of America.
Patrick Henry was born on May 29 of the year 1736 in Studley, Hanover County, Virginia. He grew
up in a Presbyterian believing home, Patrick's father, John Henry, was a Scott, who taught Patrick
most of his schooling until he was about fifteen.
As Patrick grew up, people found him to be a charming, bright young boy with a gentle, sweet
spirit and a good sense of humor. Yet he was still a boy, who loved to hunt
...show more content...
There he met a girl named Sarah Shelton. They spent a lot of time together that year and in the
summer of 1754, they got married. Their dowry was a lovely little homestead with a few acres.
With only a few slaves and himself, they soon found that it was not enough to live on with a
brand new baby boy. Then, one dry summer, their little home was burnt to the ground by a brush
fire. This devastating occurrence left the young Henry family completely broke and homeless, and
all they had left was themselves and their slaves. They then moved into the second story of the
Shelton's house until Patrick could find another job. Sarah was not well after this devastation, and
she was taken care of by her family when Patrick was away. Patrick first went to the closest large
town to look for a friend of his, Thomas Jefferson. Patrick knocked at the door of the office, was
invited in, and for a moment could not find where the speaker was from all the books surrounding
the walls, covering the floors and cluttered on the desk. Jefferson was surprised yet not unhappy
that Patrick had come to visit him and inquired what he had come for. I have come to ask what I
must do to become a lawyer, was the reply. Completely taken aback by this sudden determination,
Jefferson at first tried to persuade
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Essay On Patrick Henry And His Influence
Jerico Overson
Mr. Villate & Mr. Howard
Building America Term 1
October 26, 2017
Patrick Henry and His Influence Patrick Henry was an American lawyer born in the colony of
Virginia while it was under Britain's rule. He is mostly known for his rebellion and his call to
action against British rule. Henry's call to action was through a speech known as "Give me liberty,
or give me death!" This speech was an inspiring to many people throughout Early America and it
was vital in convincing the convention to pass a resolution delivering Virginian troops for the
Revolutionary War. He is seen as someone similar to Martin Luther King Jr.Patrick Henry was born
on May 29, 1736 in Hanover County in the Colony of Virginia. His father was from...show more
content...
They wanted to do so by allowing payment in paper money at two pence per pound when tobacco
sold at six pence per pound. They minister battled over the situation on changing it while Patrick
Henry defended Virginia against claims for back wages, vetoes of laws for the good, and
securing a jury award of one penny damages. Handling all of this for Virginia had boosted his
popularity. Patrick was now deeply into Virginian Politics. Later on, in his life he went on to
become the governor of the state. This was big for him since he was born here. It wasn't till 1776
that he won the first of three consecutive gubernatorial terms. He remained in office till June 1,
1779. In 1795, George Washington offered him the position of Secretary of State but he politely
declined.
In 1775, he made his famous speech, "Give me liberty or give me death!" He had the talent to take
his political ideology and translate into the language of a common man. Everyone knew that he
opposed the British so if he were to make a public statement on them it wouldn't be all that
surprising but it was. Patrick Henry made it clear that a war was on the horizon and it was going to
happen no matter what.
As soon as Patrick Henry delivered his speech in Virginia, it left people questioning the British rule.
Part of the speech was even specifically addressed to the president, Peyton Randolph at the time.
This showed the seriousness of his speech. He was into

Patrick Henry Speech
The reason Patrick Henry orated the speech, "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death," is to convince
the House of Burgesses that there is no other alternative but war. Henry starts off by
acknowledging the patriotism and abilities of the men who spoke before, and against him. Henry
goes on to persuade his audience by use of rhetorical questions and comparisons to religious
beliefs. Henry's speech was very motivations, and inspirational, as well as urgent and persuasive.
Patrick Henry did a good job, and at the height of his speech, he convinces the House of Burgesses
that the war needs to be fought. The first thing Henry did when giving his speech was he
complimented his opponents, in order to gain their respect and trust. Since the audience...show more
content...
Henry starts off by acknowledging the patriotism and abilities of the men who spoke before, and
against him. Henry goes on to persuade his audience by use of rhetorical questions and
comparisons to religious beliefs. Henry's speech was very motivations, and inspirational, as well
as urgent and persuasive. Patrick Henry did a good job, and at the height of his speech, he
convinces the House of Burgesses that the war needs to be fought. The first thing Henry did
when giving his speech was he complimented his opponents, in order to gain their respect and
trust. Since the audience respects Henry, they will be more willing to listen to what it is he has to
say. He then asks for forgiveness in advance for anything he says that might disrespect or offend
them, or anyone else. Henry justifies the cause for his speech, using a false dilemma to make the
audience believe that there is only two options, when in fact, there are many more. The two options
he gives them are freedom, and slavery. Henry then goes on and makes a reference to God and to
America, as a way to

Patrick Henry Accomplishments
Patrick Henry was the first and sixth governor of Virginia.
He grew up in Studley, the family farm, in Hanover County, Virginia.
He had strong feelings about freedom. "Give me liberty, or give me death!"
His parents gave him a business to run, but he shortly bankrupted it. He took the bar exam, passed,
and became a lawyer. He lived from May 29, 1736, to June 6, 1799. He was elected to Virginia
House of Burgesses in 1765, admitted to the Bar of the General Court in Virginia in 1769, elected
to the Continental Congress in 1774, Virginia Militia Leader in 1775 and Governor of Virginia,
1776–1778, 1784.
Patrick Henry created Stamp Act Revolution, effectively starting Revolutionary War. He governed
the largest state in the US the first and sixth...show more content...
He made the Stamp Acts, which perturbed the British. They then sent more troops over and
started the war. Patrick Henry faced challenges before he became successful. At the age of 15,
Henry ran a store for his father. The business didn't last, and Henry had his first taste of failure. He
married Sarah Shelton, the daughter of a local innkeeper, in 1754. As part of his wife's dowry,
Henry received some farm land. He tried growing tobacco there for three years, but he didn't fare
well in this new venture either. In 1757, Henry and his wife lost their farmhouse to a fire. He then
managed a tavern for his father–in–law and studied to be a lawyer. In 1760, he secured his law
license. "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." Patrick Henry was motivated by the people that suffered
from British taxation. He wouldn't have been motivated to end taxation if no one was being taxed.
Patrick Henry's main accomplishment impacted America because it was the turning point to war.
Without the war, we wouldn't have been independant. Patrick Henry's accomplishment had a great
impact. Without it, we would not be a free country. It politically started the Revolutionary War. The
most important thing that we should remember about Patrick Henry is his desire to end British
taxation.
Patrick Henry's achievements

Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry Speaks Against Ratification of the Constitution (1788) Patrick Henry, the noted
Virginia delegate to the Constitutional Convention, opposed a federal form of government in the
United States. Here, at a debate during the convention, Henry discusses his objections to the new
form of government. [pic] Mr. Chairman, the public mind, as well as my own, is extremely uneasy
at the proposed change of government. Give me leave to form one of the number of those who wish
to be thoroughly acquainted with the reasons of this perilous and uneasy situation, and why we are
brought hither to decide on this great national question. I consider myself as the servant of the
people of this commonwealth, as a sentinel over their rights,...show more content...
My political curiosity, exclusive of my anxious solicitude for the public welfare, leads me to ask,
Who authorized them to speak the language of, We, the people, instead of, We, the states? States
are the characteristics and the soul of a confederation. If the states be not the agents of this
compact, it must be one great, consolidated, national government, of the people of all the states. . .
. It is not mere curiosity that actuates me: I wish to hear the real, actual, existing danger, which
should lead us to take those steps, so dangerous in my conception. Disorders have arisen in other
parts of America; but here, sir, no dangers, no insurrection or tumult have happened; every thing has
been calm and tranquil. But, notwithstanding this, we are wandering on the great ocean of human
affairs. . . . The federal Convention ought to have amended the old system; for this purpose they
were solely delegated; the object of their mission extended to no other consideration. You must,
therefore, forgive the solicitation of one unworthy member to know what danger could have arisen
under the present Confederation, and what are the causes of this proposal to change our
government. . . . . . . Under the same despised government, we commanded the respect of all
Europe: wherefore are we now reckoned otherwise? The American spirit has fled from hence: it has
gone to regions where it

Research Paper On Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry was and still is a very important man in history. He spoke some of the most famous
lines in history. He was an important part of history for many reasons. Patrick was born on May
29, 1736 in Studley, Virginia. He was best known for his speech "Give me liberty or give me
death". When he was younger he tried growing tobacco but failed trying after three years. So he
started studying law, he became a lawyer in 1770 because he was fascinated by politics, and
everything in general about law. He became a famous lawyer because of the "Parson's case".
Before he became a famous lawyer he went to trials in a nearby court. He soon came to marry a
lady named Sarah Shelton, they got married in 1754 but their marriage came to an end because
she died in 1775. He married a lady named Dorethea Dandridge, between her and sarah they had
17 children. Patrick was a lawyer, patriot, orator, and a willing participant in virtually every aspect
of founding america. He was also in the sons and daughters of liberty. He was an outspoken
opponent of the Stamp and Townshend Acts levied by England, he stirred the seeds of discord with
his famous "Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death" speech to the Virginia Assembly in 1775. Henry
served a role in the overthrow of the royally appointed Virginia leadership and was elected governor
multiple times. Although he opposed the formation of the U.S. Constitution as a threat to the
liberties of the people and the rights of the states, his criticisms

Brief Biography Of Patrick Henry's Early Life
Patrick Henry EARLY LIFE Patrick Henry was born on May 29, 1736 in Hanover County,
Virginia. Patrick Henry went to school for a little while, and was taught by his father. His father
had a good education. Henry then got a job when he was 15. He was a storekeeper for his dad. After
he failed working, he then studied law and received a license in 1760. He then studied to be a
orator three years after his law license. Henry then got elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses
in 1764. Henry then got elected to be a delegate to be the First Continental Congress in August 1774.
CAREER Patrick Henry got a career as a governor. He was governor for

Pros And Cons Of Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry also called for action against the British being that written argument with them had
done very little in getting liberties for the habitants of the colonies, since the British were
unwilling to give up any control in addition to a long timeframe to receive a response worked
against their efforts. When Henry is questioned on why they should take immediate action, he asks
others what they think should be done, "Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for
the last 10 years" and he informs them that "it has been all in vain. Shall we resort to entreaty and
humble supplication?" (Henry, 1775, p.35). He is trying to get the point across that the colonies
need to do something if they otherwise they will be stuck having

Patrick Henry Speech Essay
In 1775, Patrick Henry gave America one of the most inspiring speeches that will bring soon bring
them together with war on the rise. "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" has become the battle–cry
to the people in the colonies to take a stand against Britain's rule and make America their own
country. Even after the attempted peace between the two countries, it has been exhausted to the
breaking point, and it has come to the time where fighting for their own freedom is the only viable
option. Henry's speech spoke volumes to the American people of the truth, the false presence of
peace, and the cry for battle against Britain. The British rule in the American colonies has reached a
breaking point for most. The people want to have freedom from...show more content...
Peaceful subjugation has been attempted in the past, however, it only lead to more violent actions
from Britain. Even if America only wants peace, love, and reconciliation, it's clear that Britain
doesn't care about the American people as they brought in the army and navy. That's a clear sign of
war breaking out; Henry won't stand for the insolence of the British Empire and begs the people to
see the truth and to disregard the idea of peace for Britain has already thrown out the idea long
ago. If there was truly peace amongst the two nations, then war wouldn't have to happen. The
Americans haven't seen that truth at this point, so the purpose of Henry giving this speech is to
give only the truth to them so that they may decide for themselves what they believe is best for
the nation and whether they will fight for their freedom or continue to be trampled over by the
British. As with war, peace dissipates and the American people will eventually see the truth. Patrick
Henry's was using the time he had with his speech to essentially declare war against Great Britain.
The big difference that came from the two armies was that it looked like Henry wasn't trying to
force anyone to go fight in a war. He was giving the option of fighting rather than forcing the idea
onto them. Even though he doesn't force the American people to fight, he instead inspires people to
fight by stating, "Three

Patrick Henry's Argument
One element of Patrick Henry's argument that has great efficacy is they why he is able persuaded
the people that think differently then what he does. He uses great reasons and evidence that help
support his argument. One of example of a reason that Henry use is when he says "Shall we try
argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the last ten years. Have we anything new to offer on the
subject? Nothing." He is saying they have tried to argue with them and that nothing has happened
and nothing has been done. They do not want to do that anymore because that gets them nowhere.
The evidence that he uses for that reason is "We have petitioned; we have remonstrated; we have
supplicated; we have prostrated ourselves before the throne, and have implored

Patrick Henry Speech Analysis
Introduction
When Patrick Henry gave his famous Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death speech he proved that
pens are indeed mightier than swords. That speech undoubtedly lead to the formation of the great
nation that we now live in today.
Patrick Henry was better at persuading his audience because he used a convincing combination
rhetorical questions and imagery. Patrick Henry's use of logical and emotional appeals to make his
audience believe in his cause. His purpose for speaking and his ambitious ideas also helped make
his speech stronger. Jonathan Edwards speech was good, but the fear that he instilled in his audience
crippled them instead of pushing them to action, like Henry's speech did.
Appeals
Emotional Appeals
"Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?" (Henry)
Henry is asking his audience if they would rather live a peaceful life of slavery or a life of freedom
on their own terms. This rhetorical question is impactful because Henry"s audience is afraid of
slavery, they don't like the idea of being controlled by anyone. They know what the lives of their
own slaves are like and they fear being put in that position. This makes the audience want to heed
Henry's advice and go to war against Great Britain.
Logical Appeals
"Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope" (Henry)
Henry is telling his audience that there is nothing wrong with looking on the bright side, but they
need to open their eyes

Patrick Henry's Argumentative Essay
It was on March 23, a few centuries back when the man by the name of Patrick Henry delivered
his famous speech titled "Give me liberty or give me death!" As interestingly as it sounds, the
diction of this man has been very powerful that until today, citizens of the United States nominate it
as a great impact. And why wouldn't they if it's about a man who is urging the population to desire
Patriotism in America. Just before the country entered the Revolutionary War against England, his
speech was heard around the colonies and served to persuade the entry to battle. Many liked and
agreed with his words, but others disagreed. In this case, there is several ideas in which Henry's
speech can be argued against. Despite the views who agree with him, an argument must be addressed.
Henry, mainly known because of his immortal cry memorable conclusion, has been assigned to be
an example one should follow in terms of Patriotism and fighting for our freedom and liberty.
However, it is salient to deliver a message about this speech because the common information history
books teach about this event...show more content...
If Patrick Henry's perspective is viewed from an ethical standpoint, it can be seen that what he did
was not right. This is because Americans should have decided to volunteer at war for their own sake
without being persuaded by making them think that it was the only action. Paraphrasing the words
of Cynthia Haven from Stanford News, "The idea of war should consider the ethics of a volunteer
army since its making soldiers become mass killers" (Haven, 2010) From this perspective, it can
be seen again how war is a big no concerning ethicality. Although ethics is a great point against
Henry's words, there is people who will continue to adhere him because he supposedly did what was
needed for Americans to take a stand and confront the enemy, as he mentions it himself. "There is no
longer room for hope." – Patrick Henry. (Angel,

Essay about Patrick Henry's Famous Speech
Patrick Henry's Famous Speech
'Give me liberty or give me death.' These famous words were uttered by Patrick Henry on March
23, 1775, as a conclusion to his speech delivered to the Virginia House of Burgesses. Within his
speech, he uses the three rhetorical appeals (ethos, logos, and pathos) to convey a feeling of urgency
toward the changes occurring in policy within the Americas implemented by the British government.
He cleverly uses these appeals to disrupt the paradigm that Great Britain is going to let the American
people have any liberty.
The Purpose of this speech is to gain support for a freedom movement from the British government.
One can see this when he states, ?Has Great Britain any enemy, in this quarter of the...show more
content...
The very first sentence, ?No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities,
of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the house. But?? conveys the message of
him caring about what others have said before he spoke. It also implies that he disagrees with some
of their views, which he goes on to explain through deductive reasoning in his speech
Patrick Henry uses logos in his speech by talking about Great Britain and how its military is
infringing on the right of the people living in the Americas, and how ?a British guard shall be
stationed in every house? when there is no war. The point he establishes about the extent of British
abuse within America can also be viewed as pathos.
Within Patrick Henry's speech, he states, ?? it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope.
We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth.? Here he is talking about the people in the House
of Burgesses not realizing that the British are infringing on their rights as citizens.
[And what have we to oppose to them? Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the
last ten years. Have we anything new to offer upon the subject? Nothing. We have held the subject
up in every light of which it is capable; but it has been all in vain.]
Using this series of statements, Patrick Henry presents a challenge to his peers. While

Patrick Henry Essay
Patrick Henry Patrick Henry was a great patriot. He never used his fists or guns to fight
for his country, but he used a much more powerful weapon at which he held great skill:
his words. Possibly the greatest orator of his time, his speeches such as "Give Me Liberty
or Give Me Death" struck a cord in the American spirit of those who opposed oppression
and tyranny. Henry was born on May 29th, 1736 in Studley, Virginia. His schooling was
basic; elementary school, then trained in the classics by his father. His father, John Henry
was an well–educated Scotsman who was a surveyor, colonel, and justice of the local
county court. Still young, Patrick Henry first took up storekeeping in which he failed
twice, and then farming...show more content...
He was on Virginia first Committee
of Correspondence, a delegate in the Continental Congresses, and was commander of
Virginian forces during wartime. During wartime he devised strategies that were not
looked high upon by his over lookers and he decided to resign from his post in early
1776. After leaving military duty he helped draft the first constitution of the state of
Virginia, the same year he was elected governor the first three times for one–year terms.
Although resigned from the American Military he still gave General Washington his full
support, and authorized the invasion of Illinois by George Rogers Clark. After the death
of his first wife he soon remarried then retired, but several times he was called back into
public service. First to the Virginia state legislature in 1784, and then as governor from
1784 until 1786. He decided not to attend the Philadelphia Constitutional convention of
1787, and was the leading opponent of the newly drafted U.S. Constitution. Partially

because he believed it did not grant enough freedoms to individuals and enough rights to
states. But after the creation of the Bill of Rights (In which he had much involvment),
Henry was satisfied and returned to a strong position in politics. In his last speech before
his death, he was still calling for the unification of the colonies and he still carried the
same oratorical prowess that he had

Patrick Henry Rhetorical Analysis Essay
Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Patrick Henry "Give me Liberty or Give me Death" Patrick Henry
adresses the delegates at the Convention of Virginia (1776) in his speech titled, "Give me Liberty
or Give me Death!" Henry develops his claim by speaking candidly with a dramatic tone. He
strengthens his credibility through his use and application of a ceremonious diction, and his syntax
perfectly fits the occasion. In the speech he hopes to induce delegates into seceding from Great
Britain to take arms against the English. Immediately as the speech begins, Henry's tone manifests
itself and remains unwavering. Henry begins, "It is natural for a man to indulge in the illustration of
hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth" (1). This sheds insight on his message and
portrays him as a well versed individual. He then strengthens his tone when he says...show more
content...
For example, "Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare to your feet. Suffer not yourselves to be
betrayed with a kiss," (Henry 1). Here, Henry uses an anaphora to evoke a certain emotional effect
from the audience. He also references the book of Luke from the bible which helps his argument
by appealing to any religious members of the audience. Henry's clever multifunctional pattern of
words play a major role in the deliverance of his speech. In conclusion, Henry uses various
rhetorical strategies which are centered around his tone to help persuade the delegates to become
independent. He uses his closing comments to stress the reality of the war hoping to assure them to
completely disaffiliate themselves from the British. In his final words Henry says, "give me liberty
or give me death," (3). which expresses that he would take the ultimate sacrifice for his country; this
momentous quote completely assures the delegates that seceding is the prime decision to becoming
an independent

Patrick Henry
Victoria Shivers
Mis King
Ela 1st hour
20 December 2016
Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry said "Give me Liberty or give me Death."
He made that quote in a famous speech. Patrick Henry's Early Life, reasons for Joining the War, His
Role in the war, and his Life after the war shows He was Religious.
Patrick Henry's early life had many events. According to "Patrick Henry," his father John Henry
immigrated in 1727.He was born on May,29 1736.His father joined a household of a fellow
scotsman.After Sarah 's father Syme died Patrick married his young widow Sarah.He got a
thousand acres of land.Men who were wiling to work got a lot of land.
Patrick Henry had at least two reasons to join the war.In the text, "Patrick Henry"patrick Henry got
elected to parliament.he was...show more content...
Patrick Henry's Early Life, reasons for Joining the War, His Role in the war, and his Life after the
war shows He was Religious.
Patrick Henry's early life had many events. According to "Patrick Henry," his father John Henry
immigrated in 1727.He was born on May,29 1736.His father joined a household of a fellow
scotsman.After Sarah 's father Syme died Patrick married his young widow Sarah.He got a
thousand acres of land.Men who were wiling to work got a lot of land.
Patrick Henry had at least two reasons to join the war.In the text, "Patrick Henry"patrick Henry got
elected to parliament.he was elected to the House Of Burgesses in 1765. In WestVirginia the stamp
act was getting worse.Patrick Henry got elected to Office . Also according to the text He was
Elected Governor.he was Elected because the Governor Business was considered a joak. His
Election was considered a Victory for West Virginia.
According to the text, in 1765,Patrick Henry became a Legislator for the House of Burgesses, in
west virginia.He made a series of resolutions against the Stamp Act. The stamp act imposed business
that are regulated. Patrick henry said people have a right to Govern

Why Was Patrick Henry Important
Alyssa Deckard
Mrs. King
English 7th Hour
18 January 2017
Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry was an interesting man. From raising every single one of
his seventeen kids to this famous speech that he gave, "Give me liberty, or give me
death!," he proved himself to be a loyal and trustworthy citizen. He also played a
pretty big role in the war for Independence. His early life, reasons to join the war,
role in the war, and his life after the war, all show what an amazing and important
man he truly was.
Patrick Henry lived a pretty normal life in his youth and here are a few
examples to what actually happened in his early life. According to
Biography.com Editors, Henry was born on May 29, 1736 in Hanover
County. If you didn't know,...show more content...
As governor, Henry helped the revolution in numerous ways. He
helped supply soldiers and equipment for George Washington. He also sent Virginia
troops–commanded by George Rogers Clark–to drive out British forces in the
northwest. After three terms as governor, Henry left the post in 1779.
Patrick Henry did just so happen to survive the war. For instance,
Biography.com Editors write that in 1790, he left public service and returned to being
a lawyer. He lived with his second wife,Dorothea, and every one of his seventeen

kids.The first six kids he had came from his first marriage with a woman named,
Sarah Shelton, while the rest came from his second marriage with Dorothea. Henry
spent his last years at his estate, called "RedHill," in Charlotte County, Virginia. At the
urging of his friend, George Washington,Henry fought for a seat in the Virginia
legislature. He won the post, but he didn't live long enough to serve. He died on June
6, 1799, at his Red Hill home.
Even though Patrick Henry had a pretty ordinary childhood it eventually led up
to his importance during the Revolutionary War. All of these things, his early life, his
reasons to join the war, his role in the war, and his life after the war, show what

Patrick Henry: Fallacy Essay
Patrick Henry: Fallacy In his speech during the Virginia Convention, Patrick Henry used a dynamic
tone to express his ideas. He utilized the rhetorical technique of fallacy to persuade his audience into
thinking that America's independence was necessary for the good of the nation and its people.
Henry takes advantage of fallacies such as the either or fallacy, fallacy of complex questions, appeal
of consequence, and appeal to emotion to implement his ideas into the audience. One common type
of fallacy that Henry uses is an either–or fallacy; either gain independence by war with Britain or
forever stay under the manipulation of the British empire. For example, "For my own part I consider
it as nothing less than a question of...show more content...
Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the
delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot?" This effectively
puts the audience into a panic of a future under the British, luring them more into Henry's ideas of
war. The audience, already hyped from their boosted sense of independence since the beginning of
the speech, is now completely vulnerable to Henry's words. Finally, what I consider the most
powerful technique Henry uses is the fallacy of appealing to emotion. Henry talks about various
actions that the colonists have already taken to protest the English government, such as, "We have
petitioned; we have remonstrated; we have supplicated..." By doing so, the audience is reminded of
all these things that have been done, only to realize that they have failed. Henry "reveals" that the
English government has only denied them and turned them down each time. "Our petitions have
been slighted; our remonstrances have produced additional violence and insult; our supplications
have been disregarded; and we have been spurned..." This quote builds up anger in the audience,
creating great contempt for the British. The colonists start to feel as though the British have no
intention to care about them and will take advantage of Americans every chance they get. By using
the rhetorical strategy of fallacy, Patrick Henry is able to persuade his audience into

Summary Of Patrick Henry's Speech
The colony of Virginia could not agree if they should press for an undisturbed solution with great
Britain or to prepare for war. Patrick henry introduced resolutions calling for military preparedness.
After politely listening to his fellow colleagues refusal to armed rebellion, he rose to deliver this
impassioned speech. His speech was towards the delegates from Virginia, Henrys purpose was to
persuade the colony of Virginia to withdraw from great Britain to fight back against them. He
alienated Britain by blaming every hardships they faced to Britain. He uses rhetoric to initiate a well–
known tone with the audience while the exigency in his words and alarming last line," give me
liberty or give me death", left the crowd with a threatening

Analyzing Patrick Henry's Speech
"Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" Speech by Patrick Henry on March 23, 1775 On March 23,
1775, Patrick Henry gathered the attention of many of the House with his famous speech at St.
John's Church. He was a lawyer as well as a politician with a valid response to what they should
do. This speech was his response as to what they should do concerning the British. Many had given
other opinions before but had all lead to the same conclusion. Then, Patrick Henry gave his famous
speech. The House had tried many different means of communication and reasoning with the British.
Unfortunately, the British would not lend and ear to the colonist's pleas. I believe at this point the
House was either going to keep with their same antics or give up. Finally, along came a man brave
enough to stand up and say...show more content...
We would have a Queen or a form of Hierarchy pertaining to royalty and would be singing "God
Save the Queen." Because of Patrick Henry, instead we are a nation founded on following our
"Chief in Command" known as the President, we have our own Pledge of Allegiance, and we
have our own National Anthem that many of us have taken pride in. If it was not for Patrick
Henry's boldness that day we could possibly have a different set of laws and would have to follow
British laws and procedures. I believe that this speech was a turning point that drove the colonies
for independence from the British. His speech was such a huge impact that if it did not happen we
may not have had the courage or drive to gain our independence in 1776. I think once the House
realized that Patrick Henry was right and they saw how the British were beginning to treat the
colonist as slaves they decided to form a defense. His speech was the driving point behind the call
to arms for many. They finally realized what the intentions of the British were and had had

Patrick Henry Essay

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Patrick Henry Essay