Patrick Henry (1736 - 1799) was a prominent American lawyer, orator, and statesman best known for his passionate speeches advocating for American independence from Britain. He was born in Virginia on May 29, 1736 and became one of the leading figures in the movement for independence.

Henry is perhaps most famous for his speech on March 23, 1775, in which he declared, "Give me liberty, or give me death!" This fiery declaration in the Virginia Convention was a call to arms against British tyranny and helped galvanize support for the Revolutionary War. His oratory skills made him a key voice in rallying the colonies to fight for their independence.

In addition to his role as a leading revolutionary figure, Henry served as the first post-colonial Governor of Virginia, holding office from 1776 to 1779 and again from 1784 to 1786. He was a strong advocate for states' rights and was a staunch critic of the U.S. Constitution during its drafting in 1787, fearing it gave too much power to the federal government. He was instrumental in the Bill of Rights' creation, pushing for a list of individual freedoms to be added to the Constitution.

Henry's legacy as one of the most vocal advocates for liberty and the protection of individual rights in the early years of the United States remains a significant part of American history.