1-629-942 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Patrick Henry (1736-1799), American revolutionary, delivering his famous speech in the House of Burgesses, Richmond, Virginia, USA, 1775 (1935). Henry was a prominent figure in the American Revolution, known and remembered primarily for the speech he made in the House of Burgesses on March 23, 1775, urging legislature to take military action against the encroaching British military force. The House was undecided as to whether to send troops or not, but was leaning toward not committing troops. As Henry stood in Saint John's Church in Richmond, Virginia, he ended his speech with his most famous words: 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! Along with Samuel Adams and Thomas Paine, he was one of the most influential (and radical) advocates of the American Revolution and republicanism, especially in his denunciations of corruption in government officials and his defence of historic rights. From A Concise History of the World, introduction by Sir John AR Marriott (Associated Newspapers Ltd, 1935).