Quotations from Patrick Henry, 1736-1799
- Caesar had his Brutus; Charles the First his Cromwell; and George the Third ["Treason!" cried the Speaker] -- may profit by their example. If this be treason, make the most of it.
Speech on the Stamp Act, House of Burgesses, Williamsburg, Virginia [May 29, 1765]- It is natural for 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 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.
Speech in Virginia Convention, Richmond [March 23, 1775]- I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided, and that is the lamp of experience. I know no way of judging of the future but by the past.
Speech in Virginia Convention, Richmond [March 23, 1775]- We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of Nature has placed in our power...the battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.
Speech in Virginia Convention, Richmond [March 23, 1775]- If we wish to be free; if we mean to preserve inviolate those inestimable privileges for which we have been so long contending; if we mean not basely to abandon the noble struggle in which we have been so long engaged, and which we have pledged ourselves never to abandon until the glorious object of our contest shall be obtained -- we must fight! I repeat it, sir, we must fight! An appeal to arms, and to the God of hosts, is all that is left us.
Speech in Virginia Convention, Richmond [March 23, 1775]- 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!
Speech in Virginia Convention, Richmond [March 23, 1775]
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