Patrick Henry
The Patrick Henry Home
Redhill
Brookneal, Virginia

       The battle is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. We have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat, but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged; their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable—and let it come! I repeat...let it come!
       It is in vain 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!

       —Patrick Henry, March 23, 1775
          St. John's Church, Richmond, Virginia