The Listening Zone

The most famous speech of a brilliant American orator. Although historically targeted at the British, his impassioned words resonate against today's headlines. A classic worth owning!

This recording is terrific for classrooms, history buffs, motivation, and inspiration.

This speech was delivered at the Second Virginia Convention, which was being held at Richmond, Virginia. Other convention members had just given speeches urging caution and patience until the British crown replied to the Continental Congress' latest petition for reconciliation. Patrick Henry wanted to raise a militia, and put Virginia in a posture of defense (the "Battle of Lexington and Concord" was still a month away). This speech was his rebuttal. The "President" he was addressing was the Convention's president, Peyton Randolph, of Williamsburg, Virginia.