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Give Me Liberty!
Patrick Henry Should Be A Role Model
Trace Youngblood
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Portrait of Patrick Henry |
Patrick Henry, a man most remembered for his "Give me liberty or give me death" speech, was a great orator and lawyer in his time. He was a man who would hold to his values even in the face of outstanding opposition. He was one of the most outspoken leaders of his day, often speaking agaist tyranny and political injustices. It was these speeches that were considered radical and treasonous. This attribute; that we should be aware and make others aware of the current governmental situation, should be the norm.
One example of Henry's speeches regards the stamp act. During which he stated: “Caesar had his Brutus; Charles the 1st his Cromwell; and George the 3rd may profit by their example. If this be treason, make the most of it!.” This is not the only instance in which he is cited for being radical in his views. There is, among many other examples, his famous speech in which he has been quoted: “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!” It is that courage, to speak out against what he knows to be wrong, for which I admire Patrick Henry.
Patrick Henry should be a role model in today's political arena. In fact, a majority of the founding fathers should be held up as an example in our society. Instead of admiring leaders like Mao Tse Tung (as one current administration official recently did); we should admire and follow the example of men like Patrick Henry. If we do not do this there may be consequences. As Thomas Jefferson put it: “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.” In conclusion, I admire the values that were shared by our founding fathers, which seem to be all too absent in the individuals that the people have currently elected to office.
Sources cited: - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Henry
-Wikipedia page give a brief biographical view of Patrick Henry
- The Thomas Jefferson quote is something that I have memorized, but to make sure I got the words right I referred to this page:
- http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/t/thomas_jefferson.html
- The Mao Tse Tung quoting was in reference to Anita Dunn who cited him as one of her favorite political philosophers.
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