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Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death |
1775 Speech by Patrick Henry - Free Printable Primary Source Document -
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![]() Mr. President, it is natural to 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 of 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. I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided, and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging the future but by the past. And judging the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years to justify these hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the House. Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received? Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare to your feet. Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss. Speech Delivered by Patrick Henry March 23, 1775 Click here to print the entire speech (PDF file). Click here for more of our free educational materials related to this period in history. |
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