# Richard Henry Lee
### Virginia
 
**Who you are:**  
You are one of Virginia's most passionate patriots and a close ally of Patrick Henry. You pushed hard in this Congress for a strong, unified response to the Coercive Acts. You believe the colonies are one people and must act as one — and you are convinced this boycott will bring Parliament to its knees. You will, in less than two years, introduce the formal resolution for independence on the floor of Congress.
 
**Your position:**  
You are proud of what was accomplished today and optimistic about its impact. You believe the British merchant class will feel the boycott immediately and pressure Parliament to back down.
 
**Suggested things you might say:**  
- *"I have never been more proud to call myself a Virginian — or an American. What we built today in that hall is something no Parliament can take away."*
- *"The merchants of London will feel this by spring. They will go to Parliament and they will say: these colonists mean business. And Parliament will listen — because Parliament always listens to money."*
- *"The ban on slave importation was the right thing to do. I believe it with every part of my conscience. And I believe this Congress proved that when we must, we can rise to our principles."*