Final answer:
Patrick Henry urged colonists to fight for their independence from Great Britain, encapsulated in his famous declaration, 'Give me Liberty, or give me Death!' during a speech in 1775.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patrick Henry, renowned for his impassioned speeches, famously exhorted the colonists to fight for their independence from Great Britain. In a speech delivered in March 1775, Henry declared, "Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me: Give me Liberty, or give me Death!" This statement galvanized the movement for independence and highlighted his unwavering commitment to liberty at all costs. Henry's speech, which opposed the oppressive policies like the Stamp Act of 1765, ultimately encouraged colonists to persevere through the challenges of gaining independence, leading to the eventual declaration of America as "free and independent states".