What would Patrick Henry say today, seeing the West respond to Islamic jihad attacks with candles and teddy bears?
So, for America's Independence Day, here are the closing paragraphs of Patrick Henry's 'Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death' speech, with a few edits to suit our own darkening days:
There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard at every TSA security checkpoint, and in the accusations of 'Islamophobia'! The war is inevitable and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, [Islam means] "Peace, Peace," but there is no peace. The war is actually begun!
The next gale that sweeps from the Middle East will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?
Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
Source for Patrick Henry's Speech: Colonial Williamsburg