Answer all questions correctly in 2-3 sentences
1. According to Patrick Henry, what is the basic question being debated at the Virginia Convention?
2. What reasons does Henry offer to suggest that the British were not worthy of trust at that time?
3. What argument does Henry provide against the belief that the colonies are too weak to fight the British?
4. What does Henry mean when he says that he is loyal to “...the majesty of Heaven…above earthly kings”? What tone does this statement hold?
5. Why are Henry’s final words so effective and memorable?
1. According to Patrick Henry, the basic question being debated at the Virginia Convention is whether or not the colonies should fight against the British rule.
2. Henry offers several reasons to suggest that the British were not worthy of trust at the time, including their past acts of aggression and oppression towards the colonies, their violation of colonial rights, and their refusal to listen to the colonists' grievances.
3. Henry argues against the belief that the colonies are too weak to fight the British by asserting that the colonists have the potential for strength and the will to fight, and that it is better to die fighting for freedom than to live in slavery.
4. When Henry says that he is loyal to "the majesty of Heaven...above earthly kings," he means that his loyalty lies with God and higher moral principles, rather than with earthly rulers. This statement holds a tone of defiance and righteousness.
5. Henry's final words are effective and memorable because they passionately express his conviction and determination to fight for freedom, and they inspire and rally his audience to take action. They are also concise and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.