Mahatma Gandhi: But we cannot lose. We cannot. They may torture my body, break my bones, even kill me. Then, they will have my dead body — not my obedience.
— Gandhi (1869-1948)
"It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, 'Peace, Peace!' but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"
— Patrick Henry (1736-1799)
"Live free or die: Death is not the worst of all evils."
— General John Stark, in a letter to written for a toast for the anniversary of the Battle of Bennington on July 1, 1809note
Ginger: We'll either die free chickens, or die trying.
Babs: Are those the only choices?
