What does it mean to be American? Famous historic quotes
“Give me liberty, or give me death!” changed America 243 years ago
LIFESTYLE Famous quotes
Great men and women are behind every accomplishment that we, as Americans, have ever achieved. Those Americans have fought, grieved, and sacrificed everything to get us where we are today. But fighting isn’t everything. Every great idea needs supporters, and these great American men and women have to convince those around them that theirs is a worthy mission. When Patrick Henry exclaimed “Give me liberty, or give me death!” on March 23, 1775 at St. John's Church in Richmond, VA, he didn’t just show his own passion. With his words, he motivated those at the Second Virginia Convention that independence was worth fighting—and dying—for. To help you celebrate the 243rd anniversary of these famous words, here are other quotes from Americans who knew what it meant to be American.