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Today in History: Patrick Henry urges action with "Give me liberty" speech

3/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death!" speech at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia. This impassioned address to the Second Virginia Convention rallied support for military action against British rule, significantly influencing the decision to send Virginian troops to join the American Revolution.

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Story summary

On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death!" speech at St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia. This impassioned address to the Second Virginia Convention rallied support for military action against British rule, significantly influencing the decision to send Virginian troops to join the American Revolution.