Patrick Henry: Inspiring History
A Life to Give through Public Speaking
Patrick Henry (May 29, 1736 to June 6, 1799) was an American politician, planter and orator.
We are looking at his life on how his qualities resulted in his exceptional contributions in the formation and beginning of the United States.
A main quality that Patrick Henry had with respect to Profiles in Character was his oratory skills. He was a memorable person on the podium and a convincing orator on the subject matter that he presented. He was passionate about liberty and freedom, and his strong interest on this was spread to others. They, in turn, spread the news so that enough people were of the persuasion that a large change took place in the Western Hemisphere.
Patrick Henry used his skills to defend the liberty of common people. He was accepted by the common people, this due to his friendly manner and personality. Thomas Jefferson, a few years younger, was a student at the nearby College of William and Mary. Jefferson recalled the splendor of Patrick Henry’s speeches and delivery. Thus, Patrick Henry affected Jefferson.
Patrick Henry was a strong advocate as an uncompromising opponent of imperial policy. At a time when the people searched for some good American to come to the side of the country, he did so. It was said that at those trying moments in the life of a nation it is a time for decisiveness of character. Henry did not waver.
“If this be treason, make the most of it!”
At a time when the British would hang traitors, at a time of changing thought, a possible inflection point, a pivotal time—Patrick Henry made an outstanding speech, one with grave implications.
On March 23, 1775 he spoke clearly and decisively:
“I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”
Just as a bell that rings and gives echoes later, and in the future provides a sound remembered years later, so was the case with Patrick Henry.
In tribute, The Virginia Gazette stated, “As long as our rivers flow, or mountains stand, Virginia ... will say to rising generations, imitate…Patrick Henry. The Petersburg Intelligencer stated that he was able "to conciliate all parties and produce that harmony and accord." This is a trait that seems to occur often when there is a successful Profile in Character.
According to a biographer Tate, "by his unmatched oratorical powers, by employing a certain common touch to win the unwavering loyalty of his constituents, and by closely identifying with their interests, he almost certainly contributed to making the Revolution a more widely popular movement than it might otherwise have become."
Such is the quality that Patrick Henry had, that was a skill of public speaking. He made a difference, and helped significantly to make the United States.
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Patrick Henry Portrait by George Bagby Matthews
Patrick Henry Before the Virginia House of Burgesses(1851) by Peter F. Rothermel
Episode 19 5/11/2024