Final answer:
The protesters are using "live free or die" to express their commitment to liberty and opposition to perceived overreach by a strong central government, echoing the sentiment of early American leaders who valued the defense of individual freedoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The protesters in the video are shouting the New Hampshire state motto "live free or die" because it reflects their attitude towards nation-centered federalism and the historical spirit of independence that marked the birth of the United States. This motto, deeply rooted in the American tradition, reflects the desire for self-governance and the defense of individual liberties as one of the primary values of the country. The motto embodies the fundamental belief in freedom as opposed to a strong central government, and certainly not opposition to individual freedoms.
The New Hampshire state motto conveys a message that aligns with the principles of liberty and freedom of assembly, which have been defended and exercised throughout U.S. history in events like the Black Lives Matter demonstrations and during pivotal times such as the COVID-19 pandemic when those liberties were perceived to be under threat. This echoes the sentiments of leaders like Jefferson, who saw the defense of liberties as crucial to the vitality of a nation, and the early American desire for governance structures that protected these rights post-independence.