Excerpt from a speech by Patrick Henry to the Virginia House of Burgesses
on March 23, 1775
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!
What is the main argument of the excerpt of Henry's speech?
Gentlemen tend to talk while soldiers take action.
It is necessary to fight to gain peace and freedom.
Life itself is more precious than freedom.
Death is preferable to fighting an unjust war.