Patrick Henry

One of the earliest opponents of British rule in the American colonies. Born in Virginia in 1736 to a prosperous landowner and received a classical education at home from father. Mother’s family also wealthy. On his own at age 15 – not a good businessman. Taught himself law and was admitted to the bar at age 24.

Most popular criminal lawyer in the colonies – eloquent and quick-witted. Best known for his speech to the Virginia Convention which was convincing enough to cause a war vote. Organized a Virginia militia that became part of the Continental Army after independence was declared. Helped to write Virginia’s constitution and the Virginia Declaration of Rights, a major influence on the Bill of Rights added to the U.S. Constitution.

Served as governor of Virginia and as a senator for that state. Suspicious of the federal government, he turned down positions of Secretary of State and Supreme Court justice offered by Washington. Father of 16 children – six by his first wife (who suffered mental illness) and ten by his second wife. Was a slave owner Supported the right to bear arms. Died in 1799 at Red Hill, his 700-acre plantation.