Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine had very strong beliefs in the subject of freedom. These two men fought viciously in their literature and speaking to convince others of freedom's importance. Both encouraged fighting for freedom and influenced many people. Reading and seeing their strong beliefs can give anyone a sense of appreciation for freedom. After reading their selections I have found many things about which I hold similar beliefs. I have also found some comments which seem hard for me to believe. I believe that freedom holds importance, yet God encourages us, in my opinion, of freedoms lack of importance.
Abraham Lincoln once said, "That this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." We do, as Americans, live in a sumptuous life, full of lavish pleasures and munificent entertainment.
Because of this lifestyle, we have begun to lack the appreciation for the freedoms we have. However, the founders of our great country did experience this struggle for the thing which we take for granted. Patrick Henry considered for his own part, "as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery." He held very strong beliefs and a willingness to fight for his freedom. Most everyone desires a life of freedom if they do not already have one.
Patrick Henry, very passionate about freedom, went to the extent of saying, "Give me liberty, or give me death!" To think that someone would rather their life end than live without freedom, somewhat confuses me. In my opinion a person who has never experienced life without freedom cannot knowledgably comment on the subject, however I can not possibly imagine choosing death over life without freedom.