IT’S OUR TRADITION

As the first state to declare independence from Great Britain and adopt a revolutionary constitution ratified by its people, New Hampshire’s Live Free or Die tradition is at the granite foundation of what makes our state such an extraordinary place to live, raise a family, and conduct business.

First written two centuries ago as a toast by General John Stark to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Bennington, the phrase “Live free or die: Death is not the worst of evils” has become synonymous with New Hampshire’s legacy of self-government, engaged citizenship, and fierce community pride. So much so that in 1945, “Live Free or Die” was adopted as New Hampshire’s official motto. In the decades since it has become perhaps the best known of all state mottos, speaking to the independent spirit so ingrained in American political philosophy.

The seeds of the Live Free or Die Alliance were planted over the last decade, as several of the state’s most prominent business, civic and cultural leaders began noticing a marked drop in the amount of time and interest their fellow citizens were willing or able to invest in state and local affairs. Concerned about the impact this shift could have on future generations, these men and women began to meet and exchange ideas for helping to recruit and reignite public involvement.

Over those 10 years, there emerged both a consensus and the framework for an organization that could provide New Hampshire residents with a modern, dynamic forum for learning and talking about the public policies affecting their state and communities – a way to spark new discussion and to help citizens once again take control of the issues central to their lives and their families.

The Live Free or Die Alliance was officially born in 2008. Some of the key and early founders were Paul and Sandra Montrone, Fred and Donna Seigel, Anna Grace and Paul Holloway, and their personal financial commitments have helped fund the launching of The Alliance. The Founders group quickly expanded statewide to encompass individuals from all regions of the state and every political persuasion.

The philosophical roots of the LFDA are as deep as the town hall debates that have for centuries been a hallmark of life in New Hampshire. Last July the Granite State celebrated the 200th anniversary of General Stark's famous proclamation, and the Live Free or Die Alliance committed itself to build a network of concerned citizens spanning a range of ages and ideologies. Using ever-evolving technology to enable the exchange of ideas and information, we promote the values, traditions and sense of civic responisbility vital to the New Hampshire Way.