Patrick Henry’s Speech: The Reason the United States Was Formed
Patrick Henry once gave a speech that was so good it would literally change America’s whole point of view. When he spoke to the delegates at the Virginia convention. His speech became known everywhere and would never be forgotten. The reason the United States was formed was because of his speech. He literally convinced everyone that the best idea for America was to fight and claim their freedom back from the English.
Patrick Henry would always be remembered for this famous quote “Give me Liberty, or give me death”.Patrick Henry begins his speech by thanking everyone, especially the delegates. He tells them they are “very worthy gentlemen.” Later he begins to say that, “Different men see in different lights,” The reason he is complimenting them is so that he can make a statement without dishonoring or offending the delegates which would cause them to not listen to him and get mad. He uses other words like freedom or slavery to let the delegates realize the seriousness and importance of the situation, and that they deserved to be free men under their own government.
After that, he tells the truth to the delegates so they can finally understand what is going on. He tells the delegates “We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth.” He says this because he wants them to realize they need to stop hiding and to take action. Then he quotes from the bible, to show the delegates that he knows what he is doing. This helps the delegates have a better feeling about Mr. Patrick Henry. Later he begins to tell the delegates that Britain is getting ready for a war. He then tells them “Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare at your feet.” The reason he says this is to show the delegates that not everyone can be trusted.
Then Patrick Henry explains how everything they have been trying is not working, and that they need to look for a new outcome, and the best idea is war. He says, “We must fight, I repeat it, sir, we must fight.” He uses repetition in this sentence to make his words stick in the delegates’ heads and to make sure that his point gets across. Patrick Henry keeps reminding them that there is no better time than the present and that God is on their side. He asks the delegates several questions. The reason he does this is to show the delegates what Britain has and will be doing to them. He brings up that, “Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston,” he does this to show that Boston is already attacking and the people need to be free from the horrible English.
Finally, he finishes his speech by saying that the English have begun attacking and that the war is already right, under their noses. He tells the delegates he isn’t sure what others may or may not believe, but for him, “give me liberty, or give me death.” He says this to motivate everyone. The reason he said that is to show everyone that he is willing to do what is right and fight, so In the end, Patrick Henry gave a great speech at the Virginia Convention and he also changed the world. His speech literally caused the beginning of the great country called the U.S.A. He will forever be remembered in history for his amazing speech, his willingness to stand up for what's right, and his persuasive way with words.
