Essential Questions for Revolutionary Period

What do Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine have in common?
Both of these brave men put themselves at risk of being ridiculed and accused for being against their own country in order to speak out for what they thought should be done. Also, both of these bold motivators went about their critiques in the most professional way, in that they avoiding coming off as rude or disrespectful. This, I believe, is the main reason the changes they offered were excepted so gratefully.
How do we benefit from what these men gave?
Because these men chose to stand up while all others cowered in Britain's shadows a spark was created that eventually created the fire that was the American Revolution. Without this important event in our history, America would inevitably have far less power than it does today. The revolution brought upon by Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine has ensured a better life for us and our fellow Americans.
Can you make any connections to today's political figures?
Many of the great inspirational techniques used by these two revolutionists can be compared to that of presidential candidate Barack Obama. Barack's speeches often include similar messages of hope for "a new America" and how we can make up for mistakes we've made in the past. All three men seem to have the same idea of "it's not too late to turn things around", although their primary intentions may vary.