Speech to the Virginia Convention

Speech to the Virginia Convention Henry points out a contradiction between British claims of peaceful intent and their growing military presence in America

Henry recounts several instances in which the colonists sought agreement and acceptable terms with the British. He reviews these incidents in order to persuade the delegates that all peaceful options have failed

Henry states that the colonists have the advantage over the British because the colonists have moral correctness and conviction

Henry advocates immediate action by the colonists because the conflict has already begun and the colonists have no choice but to fight

The main purpose of Patrick Henryʼs speech is to persuade his fellow delegates to fight against the British

One point that Henry does not cite as a reason for immediate military action is the  boost that war would give the economy

With the words "God . . . will raise up friends to fight our battles for us," Henry is suggesting other nations might come to the aid of the colonists

Henry seeks to dissuade the delegates from resorting to argument because after ten years all attempts at argument have been exhausted

When Henry uses the words "chains and slavery" near the end of his speech, he is referring to the price he does not want people to pay for peace

Henry declares, "I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years, to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves . . ." In this passage, Henry is using logic to engage his listenersʼ attention

Which of the following excerpts is the best example of persuasion through an emotional appeal? "There is no retreat, but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged!"  "Sir, we have done everything that could be done . . .”  "I ask gentlemen, sir, what means this martial array, if its purpose be not to force us to submission?”  "it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope."

Paine argues that the best way to defeat the British is for the troops of all the states to join together in the fight

Paine suggests that a state that surrenders its arms to the British would have to suffer the hostility of the other states