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First uttered by Patrick Henry in 1775, this famous phrase can still stir pangs of patriotism in even the most cynical citizens. Henry devoted his life to the cause of American independence. An outspoken rabble-rouser, he was also a respected politician. Henry was part of the first Continental Congress and served three terms as Virginia's governor. Still, Henry is remembered less for his political career than he is for seven impassioned words he attached to the end of a speech. Henry made his famous remarks at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia. Encouraging his fellow Virginians to arm
themselves in the cause of self-defense and the looming war, Henry ended his speech with an ultimatum for the ages. "Give me liberty or give me death!" was instantly embraced and would become even more famous in the years to come. Of course, Henry's speech didn't directly lead to American independence, but the right phrase or photograph has been known to inspire the masses. His words probably helped convince regular folks that independence was worth the price.
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