Biography
Patrick Henry: Vo ice of Liberty
Patrick Henry is best remembered for his immortal statement, “Give me liberty or give me
death!” But Henry deserves much more than to be reduced to those seven historic words. He
deserves the recognition accorded the great patriots of his era. Patrick Henry: Voice of
Liberty traces Henry’s simple Virginia roots and his rise to the Continental Congress, where
his spectacular oratory reflected the growth and spirit of our young nation. Fiery and
outspoken on the stump, yet modest and committed, Patrick Henry may have been the first
true voice of the American people. Patrick Henry: Voice of Liberty would be useful for
classes on American History, Political Science, American Culture and Rhetoric. It is
appropriate for middle school and high school.
Discussion Questions
1. It is said that Patrick Henry set the ball rolling for independence in Virginia. Discuss
Henry’s contribution to the revolutionary spirit in the Old Dominion.
2. Describe and define the Great Awakening. What impact did it have on the Henry
family? What impact did it have on American history and American culture?
3. Patrick Henry’s mother exposed him to evangelical preachers in his youth. Discuss
the influence these preachers would have on Henry’s political future and identity.
4. Taverns have served as more than a place to obtain spirits. What other purposes have
taverns served in American politics and culture? Do they serve the same purpose
today?
5. Patrick Henry began as a farmer but then became a lawyer. How did Henry, who had
very little “official” schooling, become a lawyer? Why would it be impossible for
Henry to become a lawyer today?
6. Henry’s oratorical talents have been admired for over two centuries. What were some
of the benefits of his speaking skills?
7. Discuss the importance of the Stamp Act in the American Revolution.
8. Patrick Henry, like Thomas Jefferson, owned slaves. What is the irony of Henry
holding other human beings in bondage?
9. Discuss how Patrick Henry’s speech at the Continental Congress was a call to arms.
10. Although Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry were friends for many years, they
ended their lives not speaking to one another. What was the cause of the animosity
between Jefferson and Henry?
11. What was Patrick Henry’s contribution to the formation of the United States and what
is his legacy?
Extended Activities
1. Create a chart or diagram that displays the leaders of the revolutionary generation and
their contribution.
2. Create a timeline for the revolutionary era from the first speeches about revolution to
the ratification of the Constitution.
3. Imagine that you are a member of the revolutionary generation. Write your own
speech to deliver before the Continental Congress to arouse revolutionary passions.
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