Patrick Henry Vocab
Henry argues that surrendering their freedom simply to avoid conflict would be cowardly and dishonorable. Which word means dishonorable or lacking in moral character?
A. base
B. arduous
C. delusive
D. supplication
A. base
A colonist constantly praises the king in hopes of gaining wealth, power, or special treatment. Which word best describes such a person?
A. Ruffian
B. Sycophant
C. Timorous
D. Obstinate
B. Sycophant
In the opening of the Declaration, Jefferson explains that circumstances may force or drive a people to separate themselves politically from another nation. Which word means to force or drive someone toward an action?
A. acquiesce
B. evinces
C. impel
D. institute
C. Impel
Patrick Henry argues that the British military buildup cannot be intended for friendship because Britain would have no reason to send armies and warships to the colonies if its intentions were peaceful.
Which rhetorical appeal is Henry primarily using?
Logos
Patrick Henry recognizes that fighting against the powerful British military will be extremely difficult and require great effort from the colonists. Which word means very difficult or requiring great effort?
A. delusive
B. arduous
C. base
D. supplication
B. Arduous
Paine considers the idea that Britain continues to protect America out of kindness to be ridiculous and almost laughable. Which word means absurd or ridiculously humorous?
A. Impious
B. Farcical
C. Timorous
D. Sycophant
B. Farcical
The colonists suggest that they have appealed to Britain’s sense of justice and generosity, hoping the British people would treat them fairly despite their disagreement. Which word means generosity and nobility toward an opponent?
A. prudence
B. perfidy
C. magnanimity
D. despotism
C. Magnanimity
The Declaration argues that the colonies are entitled to independence according to the “Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God,” suggesting that their rights come from an authority higher than the British king.
Ethos
Henry warns his audience not to be fooled by false hopes that Britain is preparing its military forces in order to help the colonies. Which word means misleading or giving a false impression?
A. base
B. delusive
C. arduous
D. remonstrance
B. Delusive
Paine argues that America should completely eliminate the political influence of monarchy rather than continue depending on Britain. Which word means to completely destroy or remove something?
A. Supersede
B. Extirpated
C. Confound
D. Depredation
B. Extirpated
According to the Declaration, the king’s repeated abuses demonstrate his desire to establish absolute and oppressive control over the colonies. Which word means rule through absolute and oppressive power?
A. perfidy
B. despotism
C. magnanimity
D. prudence
B. Despotism
Paine argues that the colonies should declare independence immediately because the conflict with Britain has created a unique opportunity to establish a new American government. Waiting could cause that opportunity to disappear.
Kairos
Henry reminds his audience that the colonists have humbly asked the British government to respect their rights, but their requests have been ignored. Which word means a humble or earnest request for help?
A. remonstrance
B. arduous
C. supplication
D. delusive
C. Supplication
Paine criticizes colonists who are too fearful to support independence despite Britain’s treatment of the colonies. Which word means fearful or lacking courage?
A. Obstinate
B. Farcical
C. Impregnable
D. Timorous
D. Timorous
The Declaration accuses the British government of betrayal and breaking the bonds of trust that once connected Britain and the colonies. Which word means betrayal, treachery, or deliberate unfaithfulness?
A. perfidy
B. prudence
C. despotism
D. magnanimity
A. Perfidy
Patrick Henry declares, “I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”
Pathos
he colonists have not only petitioned Britain but have also strongly objected to the government’s treatment of them. Which word refers to a forceful protest or objection?
A. supplication
B. base
C. remonstrance
D. arduous
C. remonstrance
Paine describes the destruction, raids, and damage caused by British forces against the colonies. Which word refers to an act of attacking, plundering, or causing destructive damage?
A. Depredation
B. Inducement
C. Extirpated
D. Supersede
A. Depredation
The colonists argue that they can no longer simply accept Britain’s abuses without resistance. Which word means to accept something reluctantly without protest or resistance?
A. evince
B. acquiesce
C. impel
D. extirpate
B. acquiesce
Paine describes Britain’s violent treatment of the colonies and asks Americans whether they could truly love and honor a power that has brought suffering and destruction to their homes.
Pathos