Richard Henry Lee

1 9.4

An American leader in the Revolution known for proposing independence for the American colonies

proper noun
/ˈrɪtʃərd ˈhɛnri li/

: Richard Henry Lee

Many historians credit Richard Henry Lee with introducing the motion for colonial independence in the Continental Congress.

Examples

In 1776, Richard Henry Lee famously proposed independence.
Richard Henry Lee was instrumental in advocating for American independence from British rule.
The courage of Richard Henry Lee helped shape the future of the United States.
Did Richard Henry Lee sign the Declaration of Independence?
Richard Henry Lee was instrumental in advocating for American independence from British rule.
Many historians credit Richard Henry Lee with introducing the motion for colonial independence in the Continental Congress.
In 1776, Richard Henry Lee famously proposed independence.

Surface Forms

Richard Henry Lee main

Morphology

Richard + Henry + Lee

This is a proper name: knowing the constituent given/family names ('Richard', 'Henry', 'Lee') does not allow a B1 learner to infer the historical role or biographical meaning (American statesman who proposed independence). Proper nouns are referential and arbitrary across languages, so the specific historical sense must be learned rather than derived from the parts.

Etymology

Richard Henry Lee was an American leader who stood before the Continental Congress and suggested the colonies should be 'independent' from Britain. That's why his name is remembered as part of the push for American 'independence'.