A well-known and compelling call for American colonists to rebel against British rule is Patrick Henry’s “Speech to the Second Virginia Convention,” which he gave in March 1775. The delegates are urged to acknowledge that all attempts at peacefully resolving their differences with Britain have failed, and the speech is a passionate call for armed resistance. Henry makes it apparent that there is no compromise and that war is unavoidable by framing the choice as one between freedom and slavery.

Henry starts off by praising the patriotism and skills of the men who spoke before him, but he makes the point that different people frequently have different perspectives on the same issue. While some people think that peace is still possible, he thinks that the situation necessitates an urgent and sincere conversation. He emphasizes that the issue at hand is extremely important: will British rule enslave the colonies or will they remain free? Henry claims that it would be treason against his nation and a betrayal of God if he suppressed his thoughts out of concern for other people’s feelings.

Henry then discusses the peril of having unrealistic expectations. He warns against ignoring the truth by using the metaphor of the “song of the siren,” alluding to the legendary creatures that entice sailors to their destruction. He maintains that accepting the harsh reality is preferable to holding onto false hopes of tranquility. He says he is prepared for the worst and is willing to face the truth, no matter how much it hurts.

Henry makes the point that the best way to understand the future is to look to the past. He looks back at British actions over the last decade, pointing out that the British government has continuously been hostile to the colonies in spite of their nonviolent attempts to make amends. Henry highlights that the colonists’ requests have been disregarded and have been met with insults and violence. By comparing the British response to being “betrayed with a kiss,” he makes a biblical allusion and warns that the apparent generosity of their recent petitions is actually dishonest. Britain is clearly intending to use force to subjugate the colonies, as evidenced by its warlike preparations, which include armies and fleets.

Henry contends that the colonists have no option but to fight in light of the overwhelming evidence of Britain’s animosity. He claims that since every avenue for a peaceful resolution has been explored, any more attempts at negotiation or pleading for mercy would be pointless. Henry believes that an appeal to arms is the only remaining option. He fervently exclaims, “We must fight!” and exhorts the colonists to arm themselves in order to protect their independence.

The common claim that the colonies are too helpless to resist Britain is addressed by Henry. He questions this idea, asking when waiting will ever make the colonies stronger. He cautions that if action is delayed, Britain will only be able to disarm the colonists and increase their vulnerability. Henry contends that if the colonists use their resources wisely, they are not weak. He thinks that any force that Britain sends against the colonies can be routed by the three million residents who are all committed to the same goal: liberty.

By asserting that God is supporting the colonists in their fight for independence, Henry also evokes a sense of divine justice. He highlights that the fight is not only for the strong but also for those who are watchful, active, and courageous, and he believes that a just God will assemble allies to aid them in their endeavor.

Henry emphasizes the gravity of the situation near the end of the speech. He contends that war has already started and is not only inevitable. As Henry cautions, the “next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms.” The British military is already getting ready for war. Asking what they are waiting for and whether they value life and peace more than liberty, he challenges those who are still hesitant. He makes it apparent that he believes that if living in chains is the only way to live, life is not worth living.

Henry ends by making his well-known statement: “Give me liberty or give me death!” His unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom, even at the expense of his own life, is summed up in this final line. Patrick Henry effectively agitates his audience with this speech, calling on them to resist British oppression and fight for their right to liberty.