Common Sense by Thomas Paine
First published anonymously due to its seditious content in 1776, the pamphlet argues for the need of American colonists to pursue complete independence from Great Britain, and not be driven simply by the urge to free themselves from unfair taxation...
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First published anonymously due to its seditious content in 1776,
the pamphlet argues for the need of American colonists to pursue
complete independence from Great Britain, and not be driven simply
by the urge to free themselves from unfair taxation. Paine provides
argumentation for his revolutionary ideas, suggesting the
unification of colonial forces to achieve this goal. Furthermore,
Paine strengthens his case by clearly asserting the advantages that
would come out as a result of independence, and further fortifies
his argumentation with religious references. Written in a clear
straightforward manner and comprehensible to the common people,
Common Sense was immediately well-received after its publication,
providing both inspiration and motivation to strive towards
obtaining freedom. Consequently, the pamphlet was widely
distributed and read at public events, while its ideas later earned
Paine an important position in the country’s history. Divided into
four sections, Paine begins his work by distinguishing between
government and society, suggesting that the purpose of the
government is to protect society from their flawed nature. Paine
illustrates the balance between society and government through a
scenario in which a group of isolated people eventually surrender
to the need of introducing regulations, which later results in the
formation of a government. By providing such a scenario, Paine
effectively creates a model which he argues is a better option for
the American colonists. Subsequently, Paine goes on to analyze the
validity of monarchy and hereditary succession through a biblical
and historical perspective, as he provides evidence that support
his views including biblical citations and an examination of
historical events. Following his theoretical approach, Paine shifts
his attention to giving a detailed account of the current
circumstance of America, as he concentrates on supporting his
claims calling for unity and independence. Regarded as one the most
influential pamphlets in American History, the pro-independence
monograph pamphlet is a must-read for anyone interested in learning
more about the American Revolution, as it was the most widely read
pamphlet at the time. Needless to say, Common Sense gives an
insight into the ideas and values that shaped the United States of
America into the independent nation it is today.
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