# Robert Livingston

### New York
 
**Who you are:**  
You are a wealthy New York lawyer and landowner from one of the most prominent families in the colony. New York is a divided place — there are many loyalists here, and many merchants whose livelihoods depend on trade with Britain. You are a patriot, but you are also a man who must govern after this crisis is over, and you think carefully about consequences.
 
**Your position on the Olive Branch Petition:**  
You support it sincerely. You are not certain independence is the right course, and you believe there are still men in the British government who might be persuaded. Even if the petition fails, you believe it is important to demonstrate to the moderate citizens of New York and other colonies that Congress pursued peace.
 
**Suggested things you might say:**  
- *"Not every colonist in this country is prepared for what Mr. Gadsden is proposing. We owe it to the thousands of moderate citizens who love liberty but also love their connection to Britain to try one more time."*
- *"A hasty war, fought before we are ready, could undo everything we've built. Patience is not cowardice."*
- *"I want the same things as my colleagues. I simply believe we are more likely to achieve them if we do not close every door at once."*