This is a famous speech by Patrick Henry. Here is the full rewrite in modern, easy English: No one respects the patriotism and intelligence of the gentlemen who spoke before me more than I do.

But different people see the same issue differently. So I hope it will not seem disrespectful if I speak honestly and openly, even though my opinion is very different from theirs.

This is not the time for politeness or formalities. The question before us is extremely serious. In my view, it is a question of freedom or slavery.

Because the issue is so important, we must speak freely. Only by open discussion can we discover the truth and fulfill our duty to God and our country.

If I hide my true opinion because I am afraid of offending others, I would consider it a betrayal of my country and a betrayal of God, whom I respect above all earthly rulers.

It is natural for humans to believe in hopeful illusions. We often close our eyes to painful truths and listen to comforting lies until they destroy us.

But is this what wise people should do when fighting for liberty? Should we act like those who have eyes but refuse to see, and ears but refuse to hear the truth that affects their survival?

For my part, no matter how painful it may be, I want to know the truth—the worst truth—and prepare for it.The only guide I trust is experience. The best way to judge the future is by looking at the past.

So I ask: what has the British government done in the past ten years to justify our hope that they will treat us fairly? Can we trust their polite smiles when they receive our petitions? No.

Do not trust them. Their kindness is a trap. Ask yourselves: if they truly want peace, why are they sending armies and ships? Do armies and weapons bring love and friendship? No.

These are tools of war and control. They are meant to force us into submission.Great Britain has no other enemy here. These armies are meant for us. They are sent to put chains on us.What can we do? Should we argue with them? We have done that for ten years. It has achieved nothing. Should we beg them? We have already begged, pleaded, and humbled ourselves before the king.

Our requests have been ignored. Our protests have been met with insult and violence. We have been treated with contempt.There is no longer any hope for peace.

If we truly want to be free, if we want to protect the rights we have fought for, if we do not want to abandon this noble struggle, then we must fight.

Yes, we must fight. Turning to arms and trusting in God is our only option now. Some say we are too weak to fight Britain. But when will we be stronger? Next week? Next year? Will we become stronger after they disarm us and place soldiers in our homes? Will doing nothing make us stronger? No.

We are not weak if we use the strength God has given us. Millions of people fighting for liberty in their own land cannot be defeated easily. And we will not be alone.

God will help us and raise allies to support us. Victory does not belong only to the strongest, but to those who are alert, active, and brave. Besides, we have no choice.

Even if we wanted to avoid the fight, it is too late. There is no escape except submission and slavery. Our chains are already being prepared. War is inevitable—so let it come.There is no use pretending the situation is better than it is. Some may cry for peace, but there is no peace.

The war has already begun. Soon we will hear the sounds of battle. Our brothers are already fighting.Why are we standing here doing nothing? What do people want? Is life so precious, or peace so valuable, that it is worth living as slaves? No! God forbid it.

Others may choose their own path. But for me, I say this clearly:Give me liberty, or give me death.If you want, I can also make it shorter, or explain its core message and philosophy for deeper understanding.