Saratoga National Battlefield

Patrick Henry

Today, in 1777, Patrick Henry became colonel of the First Virginia Battalion.  One of the South's premiere orators, he is well known for pushing for the Bill of Rights, and the "give me liberty or give me death," speech.  He was among the first to speak out against taxation without representation, and would commonly refer to the King as a tyrant.

He would later be elected as the first post-colonial governor of Virginia, and is considered a Founding Father of the country.

It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace²but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? 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!

http://www.history.org/almanack/life/politics/giveme.cfm