Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson

1
Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson
Revolutionary Literature

• 1736-1799 1743-1826

2
Controversial Independence

• Even after fighting broke out, many colonists
  hoped to find peace with England.
• July 6, 1775 First Continental Congress (the
  leading governmental body of the colonies) sought
  a negotiated settlement with Britain.

3
Types of Literature

• Propaganda quickly became main type of writing
  seen during pre-Revolution times.
• Attempt to convince all colonists that
  independence from Britain was only way they could
  be happy
• Speeches, pamphlets, negotiations and
  declarations from conversations with Britain.

4
Patrick Henry

• Born in Virginia during Great Awakening
• Many failed attempts at farming and merchant life
• 1765 29 year old lawyer
• Chosen to represent Virginia against Stamp Act
• Delivered a fiery speech that instantly made him
  famous

5
Henrys Politics

• Spoke FOR revolution
• After many speeches in favor of compromise with
  British
• Give me Liberty or give me Death!
• Used ivory letter opener and plunged toward chest
• Persuaded his delegation to fight- Virginia
  convention voted to arm against the British
• 1775 Battle of Lexington ignites Revolutionary
  War

6
Henrys Persuasion

• Emotional appeal a persuasive technique that
  pulls at the emotions of those listening.
• Listen to your heart
• Logical appeal a persuasive technique that asks
  listeners to use good, common sense
• Listen to your head

7
Thomas Jefferson

• Born in Virginia
• Father died when Thomas was 14
• Well educated
• College of William and Mary
• Became a lawyer
• Spokesperson for rights/freedom
• Died on same day as John Adams (dear friend and
  another president)

8
Jeffersons Politics

• Chosen to draft Declaration of Independence
• Served as governor of Virginia
• Jeffersonian democracy give rights to
  states/individuals as much as possible

9
Jeffersons Presidency

• 3rd president of USA
• Humble
• Simple clothes
• Eliminated seating by rank
• Doubled the size of country
• Louisiana Purchase