I’d rather die on my feet, than live on my knees.

[Prefiero morir de pie que vivir de rodillas.]

Emiliano Zapata 1879-1919) Mexican revolutionary, reformer [Emiliano Zapata Salazar]
(Attributed)

Often misattributed to Che Guevara, José Martí, and other revolutionaries. Popularized by "La Pasionaria" Dolores Ibárruri, during her speeches and broadcasts in the Spanish Civil War. More discussion here.

Alternate versions/translations:

• "I'd prefer to die standing, than to live always on my knees! [¡Prefiero morir de pie que vivir siempre arrodillado!]"
• "Men of the South! It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees!"
• "I would rather die standing than live on my knees!"
• "It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees!"
• "I prefer to die standing than to live forever kneeling."
• "Prefer death on your feet to living on your knees."