Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat

Winston Churchill gave his “Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat” speech on May 13, 1940, in his first address to the House of Commons after his appointment to the position of prime minister three days prior. This short speech communicates Churchill’s resolution to lead Britain in the fight against Nazi Germany and galvanizes the audience to support the newly formed coalition government and the war effort. Lack of support from parliament during the Norway Debate had just forced the resignation of former Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain. It was therefore of vital importance that the new government be legitimized by the passing of this motion of confidence. This speech is among Churchill’s most iconic and influential speeches, and since 2016 the titular quote “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat” has been inscribed under a portrait of Churchill on the British five-pound note.

This guide uses the edition of the speech published by the International Churchill Society.

Churchill opens by outlining the motion that he is proposing to Parliament: that the House formally register their support for the new government under Churchill that has been formed to lead Britain to victory in the Second World War (WWII).