Richard Henry Lee

[Music] Good day. I am Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. I stood in the pews at St. John's Church when Patrick Henry cried, "Give me liberty or give me death." He and I believe that it was time for Virginia to lead. And we did. On June 7th, 1776, I rose in Congress and declared, "These United colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states." John Adams seconded. Congress postponed a debate till July 1st, but the words stood. A committee led by Jefferson shaped the declaration from my resolution. Though absent for the final vote, I returned to sign the document that began our nation. I would go on to help draft the Articles of Confederation and serve as president of Congress. A man who loves liberty should never grant to rulers an atom of power that is not necessary for the safety and well-being of society. It is now yours to guard that liberty and grant to no government more power than is truly necessary. [Music]