The American Speaker: Jacob Henry's Speech on Religious Freedom

This book excerpt, from the 1817 edition of *The American Speaker: A Selection of Popular Parliamentary and Forensic Eloquence…Including Great Speeches by Presidents and Indian Chiefs*, features on page 259 a landmark speech on religious freedom delivered by Jacob Henry. Henry, North Carolina's first Jewish legislator (elected in 1808), refused to take the oath on the New Testament as required by the state constitution. His resulting speech secured his right to his seat and championed religious liberty for all Americans. This item is not listed in Singerman.

Associated People/Businesses

• HENRY, JACOB

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Freedom of religion
• North Carolina--Politics and government
• Speeches, addresses, etc.

Physical Location