Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace—but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! 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 [...]
Editor’s Note: This speech was delivered by Patrick Henry on June 5, 1788, at the Virginia Ratifying Convention, against the proposed Constitution, and is reproduced here as recorded by the convention’s secretary. Mr. HENRY. Mr. Chairman, I am much obliged to the very worthy gentleman for his encomium. I wish I was possessed with talents, or possessed of [...]