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Lesson

Patrick Henry (1736-1799)

Duration
45 min
Published
Nov 5, 2020
Portrait of a man with glasses and a red coat, set against a dark background.
Why is Patrick Henry called the "The Orator of Liberty" and why did he oppose the Constitution?

Founding Principles

Federalism, Freedom of Religion, Liberty, Limited Government

Learning objectives

Students will:

  • explain why Henry is often called “The Orator of Liberty”
  • understand Henry’s role in the American independence movement
  • explain Henry’s objections to the Constitution
  • analyze Henry’s speaking style

Materials

Student Handouts

Additional Teacher Resource

Lesson Components

ActivityHandout A: Patrick Henry (1736-1799)
ActivityHandout B: Context Questions – Patrick Henry (1736-1799)
ActivityHandout C: In His Own Words: Patrick Henry on the Constitution
ActivityThematic Essays – Patrick Henry (1736-1799)

Lesson plan

45 minClick a phase to open it

Standards

Advanced Placement

  • CCE

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Related materials

Portrait of a man with light-colored hair, wearing a red coat and glasses, against a dark background.
FounderPatrick Henry

Henry was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses. By the 1770s, Henry had emerged as one of the most radical leaders of the opposition to British tyranny.