• University Archives
  • Special Collections
  • Records Management
  • Policies and Forms
  • Sound Recordings
  • Theses and Dissertations
  • Selections From Our Digitized Collections
  • Videos from the Archives
  • Special Collections Exhibits
  • University Archives Exhibits
  • Research Guides
  • Current Exhibits
  • Upcoming Events
  • Past Events
  • Past Exhibits
  • Camelot Comes to Brandeis
  • Special Collections Spotlight
  • Library Home
  • Degree Programs
  • Majors and Minors
  • Graduate Programs
  • The Brandeis Core
  • School of Arts and Sciences
  • Brandeis Online
  • Brandeis International Business School
  • Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
  • Heller School for Social Policy and Management
  • Rabb School of Continuing Studies
  • Precollege Programs
  • Faculty and Researcher Directory
  • Brandeis Library
  • Academic Calendar
  • Undergraduate Admissions
  • Summer School
  • Financial Aid
  • Research that Matters
  • Resources for Researchers
  • Brandeis Researchers in the News
  • Provost Research Grants
  • Recent Awards
  • Faculty Research
  • Student Research
  • Centers and Institutes
  • Office of the Vice Provost for Research
  • Office of the Provost
  • Housing/Community Living
  • Campus Calendar
  • Student Engagement
  • Clubs and Organizations
  • Community Service
  • Dean of Students Office
  • Orientation
  • Hiatt Career Center
  • Spiritual Life
  • Graduate Student Affairs
  • Directory of Campus Contacts
  • Division of Creative Arts
  • Brandeis Arts Engagement
  • Rose Art Museum
  • Bernstein Festival of the Creative Arts
  • Theater Arts Productions
  • Brandeis Concert Series
  • Public Sculpture at Brandeis
  • Women's Studies Research Center
  • Creative Arts Award
  • Our Jewish Roots
  • The Framework for the Future
  • Mission and Diversity Statements
  • Distinguished Faculty
  • Nobel Prize 2017
  • Notable Alumni
  • Administration
  • Working at Brandeis
  • Commencement
  • Offices Directory
  • Faculty & Staff
  • Alumni & Friends
  • Parents & Families
  • 75th Anniversary
  • New Students
  • Shuttle Schedules
  • Support at Brandeis

Robert D. Farber University Archives and Special Collections

Thomas paine's common sense, 1776.

Description by Kenneth Hong, Brandeis undergraduate and special contributor to the Special Collections Spotlight.

Title page from "Common Sense"

“Common Sense,” published on January 10, 1776, was originally printed in the city of Philadelphia, but was soon reprinted across America and Great Britain, and translated into German and Danish. [1]  Thomas Paine’s pamphlet was first published anonymously, due to fears that its contents would be construed as treason; it was simply signed, “by an Englishman”. [2]  The version housed at Brandeis University is one of the London printings, which had hiatuses, where words and phrases were omitted that were offensive to the British crown. [3]  “Common Sense” sold about 120,000 copies in the first three months alone, being read in taverns and meeting houses across the 13 original colonies (the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population in 1776 to be about 2.5 million and today to be about 320 million, that would make it proportionally equivalent to selling 15,000,000 copies today!) [4]

Introduction page from Thomas Paine's "Common Sense"

Paine used his writing as his weapon against the crown. With masterful language, Paine united the will of the colonists, planting the seed and giving hope and inspiration to fulfill the dream of America as an independent nation. The pamphlet was originally published without his name and all of the royalties associated with “Common Sense” were donated to the Continental Army. [9]  It would appear that Paine was looking for neither fame nor fortune in writing a pamphlet that profoundly affected the creation of a nation. To Paine, these ideas came naturally, they were simply, “Common Sense.” 

August 2 , 2015

  •  Powell, Jim. “ Thomas Paine, Passionate Pamphleteer for Liberty ,” in The Freeman, January 1, 1996. Foundation for Economic Education. Accessed March 11, 2015.
  •   Ibid .
  •   Entry for Call# D793.P147c . Brown University Library Online Catalog. Accessed March 12, 2015.
  •  Harvey Kaye. “ Common Sense and the American Revolution. ” The Thomas Paine National Historical Association. Accessed February 10, 2015.
  •  “ Praise for Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, 1776 as Reported in American Newspapers, ” in “America in Class: Making the Revolution: America, 1763-1791: Primary Source Collection.” The National Humanities Center. Accessed March 13, 2015.
  •   Ibid.
  •  Paine, Thomas. Common Sense. London: J. Almon, 1776.
  •  Kaye, Accessed February 10, 2015.

This essay, by Brandeis undergraduate Kenneth Hong, resulted from a Spring 2015 course for the Myra Kraft Transitional Year Program, taught by Dr. Craig Bruce Smith, entitled, “Preserving Boston’s Past: Public History and Digital Humanities.” In this course, students worked with archival materials, developed website content, and produced their own commemoration event, “The 250th Anniversary of the Stamp Act: A Revolutionary Exhibit and Performance,” marking one of the first steps of the American Revolution.

The Transitional Year Program was established in 1968 and was renamed in 2013 for Myra Kraft ‘64, the late Brandeis alumna and trustee. It provides small classes and strong support systems for students who have had limitations to their precollege academic opportunities.

  • About Our Collections
  • Online Exhibits
  • Events and In-Person Exhibits
  • From the Brandeis Archives

Common Sense

By John Saillant

Published in Philadelphia in its first edition in January 1776, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense became one of the most widely disseminated and most often read political treatises in history. It looked forward to democratic politics and universal human rights, yet it also reflected local circumstances in Philadelphia. Common Sense was thus an overture to democracy and human rights as well as part of Philadelphia print culture and local politics.

Title page of Thomas Paine's Common Sense

Born in England, Paine (1737-1809) adopted Philadelphia as a temporary home in November 1774, when he arrived with a letter of introduction from Benjamin Franklin (1706-90), whom he had met in London. Franklin recognized Paine’s skills as a writer and polemicist, and his letter helped Paine secure a position as the first editor of The Pennsylvania Magazine . In eight months as editor, Paine increased subscriptions and popularized colonial essays and poetry (as opposed to reprints of British material). Upon leaving The Pennsylvania Magazine , Paine was encouraged by Franklin and Benjamin Rush (1746-1813) to write Common Sense .

Philadelphia, the leading colonial political and mercantile city, was central to American resistance to exertions of British power in the 1770s. Delegates from most of the North American British colonies met in Philadelphia as the first Continental Congress in September and October 1774. A second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia in May 1775, then declared independence in July 1776. Throughout 1776, Philadelphians feared invasion by water as well as by land. British ships blockaded Delaware Bay, while British soldiers moved south from New York through New Jersey toward Philadelphia. Appearing in the midst of this heightened political state, Common Sense found an audience in Philadelphia and elsewhere.

Attacking Traditional Authority

Engraving of Thomas Paine created by George Romney.

Paine’s renown in his own time and in later eras rested on his attack on traditional political authority and his defense of a radical form of democratic political participation. Paine had little inkling that politics dominated by white men would be, beginning in the nineteenth century, challenged by women and racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities. But he did define political participation and representation in ways that were in theory open to all. Much of American political thought after the War of Independence has entailed accepting or rejecting the notion of full political participation that Paine enunciated in Common Sense .

Paine’s arguments against traditional political authority dissected notions like the divine right of kings, the legitimacy of custom, the social value of aristocrats, and the ability of monarchs to ensure peace and prosperity for their subjects. Often Paine used familial metaphors such as King George III as a father who had turned against his children. The implication was that ordinary people, who had experienced familial relations, could make informed judgments about weighty political matters. He cast the situation in the Anglo-American colonies in 1776 as historic and universal. “The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind,” he wrote. “Many circumstances hath, and will arise, which are not local, but universal, and through which the principles of all Lovers of Mankind are affected.”

Accordingly, in Common Sense , Paine cast himself as “under no sort of Influence public or private, but the influence of reason and principle.” His arguments for democratic politics rested on a broad suffrage, annual elections, and a large unicameral body of legislators. He aimed for representative government close to voters and responsive to their interests. Since the government recommended in Common Sense was a revolutionary alternative to the English Parliament, the British Crown, and the colonial royal governors and councils, then Paine’s conclusion was obvious. Reconciliation between Americans and the British government was impossible, and separation, independence, and unification of the colonies into a new nation should proceed.

First Edition Published Anonymously

The form of government Common Sense recommended—a unicameral legislature with annual elections—was indeed crafted in 1776 by a Pennsylvania convention charged with writing a constitution for the new state. Most of the former colonies wrote new constitutions at this time as replacements for their colonial charters.  The first edition of Common Sense was published anonymously by Scottish-born Philadelphia printer Robert Bell (c. 1732-84), who risked a charge of treason for disseminating the work. After arguing with Bell about profits and copyright, Paine appealed to Bell’s competitors, the Bradford Brothers, who published several enlarged editions, including the one most known to posterity, a third edition with new front and end matter and, for the first time, with Paine’s name on the title page. The wrangling over the work simply added to its notoriety. Moreover, Paine castigated  Pennsylvania Quakers for mixing religion and politics in their appeals for peace. The book was quickly republished in a number of American and European cities.

Title page of Plain Truth by James Chalmers.

In the mid-1770s many Americans as well as many Philadelphians were torn between loyalty to the British empire and anger over the incursions of imperial power into the colonies in the late 1760s and early 1770s. Paine’s contemporaries (like modern scholars) perceived Common Sense as the decisive text that propelled colonial sentiment into independence. George Washington (1732-99), for instance, praised its “sound Doctrine, and unanswerable reasoning.” Edmund Randolph (1753-1813) wrote that after the dissemination of Common Sense , “public sentiment which a few weeks before had shuddered at the tremendous obstacles, with which independence was environed, overleaped every barrier.” Still, Common Sense also had critics, for example James Chalmers (1734-1806) in Plain Truth (1776, printed by Bell).

Paine continued to exhort for the patriot cause in a series of essays, American Crisis . Some of the language that Americans associate with the revolution—for example, “These are the times that try men’s souls”—flowed from Paine’s pen in these years. But in 1790 Pennsylvanians dismantled and modified their radically democratic government. A new constitution enacted mixed government, balancing a lower house with an upper house and a governor. By then Paine had moved to England (where he wrote Rights of Man ) and then France (where he wrote The Age of Reason ).

In sum, Common Sense was one of the most significant catalysts of the War of Independence as well as a bellwether of democratic thought. Although the radical structure of government that Paine recommended proved short lived in Pennsylvania, Americans at large have since the revolution grappled with some of the central concerns of Common Sense . Americans still contest the balance between popularly elected governments (both state and federal) and individual rights. Moreover, Paine, often called “a citizen of the world,” wrote in the American Crisis , “My attachment is to all the world, and not to any particular part.” His sense of world citizenship remains pertinent in the twenty-first century, an era of energetic human migration, instantaneous electronic communication, and global ecological interdependence.

John Saillant is Professor of English and History at Western Michigan University. He is the author of the monograph Black Puritan, Black Republican: The Life and Thought of Lemuel Haynes.  (Author information current at time of publication.)

Copyright 2015, Rutgers University

common sense essay by thomas paine

Thomas Paine

Library of Congress

Born in England, Thomas Paine (1737-1809) adopted Philadelphia as a temporary home in November 1774, when he arrived with a letter of introduction from Benjamin Franklin (1706-90), whom he had met in London. Franklin recognized Paine’s skills as a writer and polemicist, and his letter helped Paine secure a position as the first editor of The Pennsylvania Magazine . In eight months as editor, Paine increased subscriptions and popularized colonial essays and poetry (as opposed to reprints of British material). Upon leaving The Pennsylvania Magazine , Paine was encouraged by Franklin and Benjamin Rush (1746-1813) to write Common Sense .

common sense essay by thomas paine

In Common Sense , Thomas Paine cast himself as "under no sort of Influence public or private, but the influence of reason and principle." His arguments for democratic politics rested on a broad suffrage, annual elections, and a large unicameral body of legislators. He aimed for representative government close to voters and responsive to their interests. Since the government recommended in Common Sense was a revolutionary alternative to the English Parliament, the British Crown, and the colonial royal governors and councils, then Paine's conclusion was obvious. Reconciliation between Americans and the British government was impossible, and separation, independence, and unification of the colonies into a new nation should proceed.

common sense essay by thomas paine

Plain Truth

Paine’s contemporaries (like modern scholars) perceived Common Sense as the decisive text that propelled colonial sentiment into independence. George Washington (1732-99), for instance, praised its "sound doctrine, and unanswerable reasoning." Still, Common Sense also had critics, for example James Chalmers (1734-1806) in Plain Truth (1776, printed by Bell).

Chalmers, a loyalist living in Chestertown, Md., wrote Plain Truth under the pen name Candidus to avoid the potential conviction for libel as Chalmers attacked Paine’s views as quackery. During the War for Independence, Chalmers became the lieutenant colonel of the First Battalion of Maryland Loyalists. Following the War Chalmers moved back to England and continued to attack Thomas Paine’s economic policies.

common sense essay by thomas paine

Related Topics

  • Philadelphia and the World
  • Philadelphia and the Nation
  • Cradle of Liberty

Time Periods

  • American Revolution Era
  • Colonial Era
  • Center City Philadelphia
  • Continental Congresses
  • Declaration of Independence
  • Revolutionary Crisis (American Revolution)
  • Printing and Publishing

Related Reading

Aldridge, Alfred Owen. Thomas Paine’s American Ideology . Newark, Del.: University of Delaware Press, 1984.

Claeys, Gregory. Thomas Paine: Social and Political Thought . London: Taylor and Francis, 2002.

Foner , Eric. Tom Paine and Revolutionary America , updated edition. New York: Oxford University, 2005.

Kaye, Harvey. Thomas Paine and the Promise of America . New York: Hill and Wang, 2006.

Larkin, Edward. Thomas Paine and the Literature of Revolution . New York: Cambridge University Press, 2005.

Foner, Eric, ed. Thomas Paine: Collected Writings . New York: Library of America, 1995.

Related Collections

  • Rare and electronic copies of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense and related works Library Company of Philadelphia 1314 Locust Street, Philadelphia.

Related Places

  • Common Sense Historical Marker, site of Robert Bell’s shop
  • Independence Hall
  • Thomas Paine Historical Marker
  • Thomas Paine Plaza

Backgrounders

Connecting Headlines with History

  • Plans for American Revolution Center take shape (WHYY, June 12, 2012)
  • Revolutionary Politics (ExplorePaHistory.com)
  • Books That Shaped America, 1750–1800 (Library of Congress)
  • Creating the United States, Founded on a Set of Beliefs (Library of Congress)
  • The American Enlightenment: From Royal to Republican (Stanford University Digital Collections)
  • Democratic Origins and Revolutionary Writers, 1776-1820 (U.S. Department of State)
  • Paine v. Chalmers: Was Declaring Independence Common Sense? (Smithsonian Associates)

National History Day Resources

  • Common Sense E-Book (Project Gutenberg)
  • Plain Truth (HathiTrust Digital Library)
  • The American Crisis Audio-Book (LibriVox)
  • The American Crisis E-Book (HathiTrust Digital Library)
  • The Rights of Man E-Book (Project Gutenberg)
  • The Age of Reason E-Book (Project Gutenberg)

Connecting the Past with the Present, Building Community, Creating a Legacy

  • Project Gutenberg
  • 72,923 free eBooks
  • 8 by Thomas Paine

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

Book Cover

Read now or download (free!)

Similar books, about this ebook.

  • Privacy policy
  • About Project Gutenberg
  • Terms of Use
  • Contact Information

iBiblio

common sense essay by thomas paine

  • History Classics
  • Your Profile
  • Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window)
  • Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window)
  • Find History on YouTube (Opens in a new window)
  • Find History on Instagram (Opens in a new window)
  • Find History on TikTok (Opens in a new window)
  • This Day In History
  • History Podcasts
  • History Vault

This Day In History : January 10

Changing the day will navigate the page to that given day in history. You can navigate days by using left and right arrows

Thomas Paine publishes “Common Sense”

common sense essay by thomas paine

On January 10, 1776, writer Thomas Paine publishes his pamphlet “Common Sense,” setting forth his arguments in favor of American independence. Although little used today, pamphlets were an important medium for the spread of ideas in the 16th through 19th centuries.

Originally published anonymously, “Common Sense” advocated independence for the American colonies from Britain and is considered one of the most influential pamphlets in American history.  Credited with uniting average citizens and political leaders behind the idea of independence, “Common Sense” played a remarkable role in transforming a colonial squabble into the American Revolution .

At the time Paine wrote “Common Sense,” most colonists considered themselves to be aggrieved Britons.  Paine fundamentally changed the tenor of colonists’ argument with the crown when he wrote the following:  “Europe, and not England, is the parent country of America.  This new world hath been the asylum for the persecuted lovers of civil and religious liberty from every part of Europe.  Hither they have fled, not from the tender embraces of the mother, but from the cruelty of the monster; and it is so far true of England, that the same tyranny which drove the first emigrants from home, pursues their descendants still.”

Paine was born in England in 1737 and worked as a corset maker in his teens and, later, as a sailor and schoolteacher before becoming a prominent pamphleteer. In 1774, Paine arrived in Philadelphia and soon came to support American independence.  Two years later, his 47-page pamphlet sold some 500,000 copies, powerfully influencing American opinion. Paine went on to serve in the U.S. Army and to work for the Committee of Foreign Affairs before returning to Europe in 1787.  Back in England, he continued writing pamphlets in support of revolution. He released “The Rights of Man,” supporting the French Revolution in 1791-92, in answer to Edmund Burke’s famous “Reflections on the Revolution in France” (1790). His sentiments were highly unpopular with the still-monarchal British government, so he fled to France, where he was later arrested for his political opinions.  He returned to the United States in 1802 and died in New York in 1809.

Also on This Day in History January | 10

common sense essay by thomas paine

This Day in History Video: What Happened on January 10

First meeting of the united nations, league of nations instituted, gusher signals new era of u.s. oil industry, president harding orders u.s. troops home from germany, president johnson asks for more funding for vietnam war.

common sense essay by thomas paine

Wake Up to This Day in History

Sign up now to learn about This Day in History straight from your inbox. Get all of today's events in just one email featuring a range of topics.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

FDR introduces the lend-lease program

Outlaw frank james born in missouri, aol-time warner merger announced, avalanche kills thousands in peru, world’s cheapest car debuts in india.

Have Fun With History

Common Sense Thomas Paine Significance

Common Sense by Thomas Paine – Significance and Influence

“Common Sense” by Thomas Paine is a timeless and influential pamphlet that played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history.

Published in 1776 during the American Revolution, Paine’s persuasive writing and revolutionary ideas captivated the minds of the American colonists, sparking a fervent call for independence from British rule.

This brief exploration delves into the significance of “Common Sense,” its impact on the American Revolution, its role in fostering unity among the colonies, and its enduring influence on political thought both in the United States and beyond.

The Significance of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense

1. advocated for american independence.

“Common Sense” was a groundbreaking pamphlet published by Thomas Paine in 1776, during a critical time in American history. Paine’s central argument was for the complete independence of the American colonies from British rule.

Also Read: Thomas Paine Timeline

He eloquently and passionately challenged the notion of a hereditary monarchy and questioned the legitimacy of the British monarchy’s authority over the distant colonies.

Paine argued that it was only natural for the American people to govern themselves, free from the control of a distant and unresponsive government across the Atlantic.

2. Played a crucial role in the American Revolution

The publication of “Common Sense” had an extraordinary impact on the American Revolution. At the time of its release, there was considerable debate within the colonies regarding the path they should take in response to British policies.

Also Read: Thomas Paine Facts

Paine’s pamphlet struck a chord with the general public, as it presented a compelling case for outright independence. The pamphlet was widely read and discussed, reaching people from all walks of life, including ordinary citizens, soldiers, and political leaders.

“Common Sense” helped galvanize public sentiment and mobilized support for the revolutionary cause. It provided a clear and powerful argument for why breaking away from British rule was not only justified but necessary for the preservation of liberty and self-determination.

3. Influenced the formation of the United States as a democratic republic

Beyond advocating for independence, “Common Sense” also laid out Paine’s vision for a new form of government for the American colonies.

Paine promoted the idea of a democratic republic, where the power to govern would be vested in the hands of the people, rather than in the hands of a monarch or ruling elite.

His ideas helped to shape the thinking of the Founding Fathers, such as Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams, who played instrumental roles in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution.

Paine’s call for a government based on the consent of the governed and the protection of individual rights echoed throughout the founding documents of the United States, making a lasting impact on the country’s political structure and principles.

4. Written in a clear and accessible style

One of the key reasons for the immense impact of “Common Sense” was Thomas Paine’s ability to convey complex political ideas in a clear and straightforward manner.

Unlike many other political writings of the time, which were often dense and filled with formal language, Paine wrote in simple and accessible prose. He deliberately used everyday language that could be easily understood by common people, ensuring that his arguments reached a wide audience.

This approach was revolutionary in itself, as it made political discourse more inclusive and helped bridge the gap between the educated elite and ordinary citizens.

Paine’s writing style set a precedent for future political communication, emphasizing the importance of clarity and accessibility in conveying ideas to the masses.

5. Widely distributed throughout the American colonies

Despite the limited means of communication and printing technology in the 18th century, “Common Sense” achieved remarkable distribution and dissemination.

Paine initially published the pamphlet anonymously, but its authorship was soon revealed. It was printed and distributed in various cities and towns throughout the American colonies.

Due to its affordable price and easy-to-read format, many copies were sold and shared among people from all walks of life.

The pamphlet’s widespread availability ensured that its message reached a vast audience and contributed to its significant influence on public opinion. Paine’s work also inspired others to write responses and engage in a broader public debate about independence and self-governance.

6. Popularized republican ideology

“Common Sense” played a crucial role in popularizing republican ideals among the American colonists. Paine argued for a government based on the consent of the governed and advocated for the abolishment of monarchy and aristocracy.

He proposed a representative democracy, where elected officials would act in the best interest of the people and uphold their rights and freedoms. Paine’s promotion of these republican principles resonated with many colonists who were seeking a new and just form of government.

His ideas reinforced the belief that the power to govern should come from the people themselves, not from a distant and unaccountable monarchy.

This popularization of republican ideology helped solidify the concept of sovereignty residing with the people and contributed to the formation of democratic institutions in the emerging United States.

7. Contributed to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence

The ideas presented in “Common Sense” had a profound influence on the thinking of the Founding Fathers, many of whom were already sympathetic to the cause of independence. Thomas Paine’s arguments reinforced their beliefs and provided additional support for the case for separation from Britain.

Some of Paine’s language and concepts found their way into the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted on July 4, 1776.

Notably, the Declaration emphasized the principles of natural rights, the consent of the governed, and the right to alter or abolish an oppressive government, ideas that were already prominent in “Common Sense.”

While Paine himself was not directly involved in the drafting of the Declaration, his pamphlet played a significant role in shaping the intellectual climate that led to its creation.

8. Fostered unity among the American colonies

In the years leading up to the American Revolution, the thirteen colonies were diverse in terms of their backgrounds, economies, and political structures. They did not always see eye-to-eye on matters of governance and resistance to British policies.

“Common Sense” helped bridge these divides and fostered a sense of unity among the colonies. By providing a coherent argument for independence and republican government, Paine encouraged the colonies to work together in their struggle against British rule.

The pamphlet made the case that the shared cause of independence was more important than any regional differences or disagreements. As a result, “Common Sense” played a vital role in consolidating the colonies’ efforts and building a collective sense of identity that would prove crucial during the American Revolution.

9. Enduring influence on political thought

Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” remains an enduring and celebrated work in the history of political thought. Its impact extended far beyond the American Revolution.

The pamphlet’s articulation of democratic principles, advocacy for independence, and criticisms of monarchy and tyranny have continued to inspire generations of thinkers, politicians, and activists around the world.

Paine’s ideas on the rights of individuals and the legitimacy of government have become foundational concepts in political theory and have shaped discussions on governance, liberty, and democracy for centuries. “Common Sense” stands as a testament to the power of persuasive writing and the ability of one individual to profoundly influence the course of history.

10. Inspired independence movements worldwide

Beyond its impact on the American Revolution and the formation of the United States, “Common Sense” had a broader influence on the global stage. Translations and excerpts of the pamphlet spread to other countries, inspiring independence movements and political revolutions in various parts of the world.

Paine’s ideas on the rights of people to govern themselves and the need to challenge oppressive authority resonated with individuals and groups seeking freedom and self-determination in different contexts. “Common Sense” became a symbol of the transformative power of ideas, inspiring movements for liberty and independence throughout the ages and across continents.

common sense essay by thomas paine

Common Sense

Thomas paine, everything you need for every book you read..

Thomas Paine argues that because the American colonies have suffered oppression at the hands of Britain’s King and Parliament, Americans are justified in investigating and even rejecting Britain’s “usurping” power. He further argues that Britain has attacked “natural rights” that should be of concern to humanity as a whole, not just America.

Paine begins with comments on the nature of government, first distinguishing between society and government. He argues that “society” is a blessing, the result of human wants and united affections. Government, on the other hand, is no better than a “necessary evil” which serves to restrain human vices. In other words, government is only needed where moral virtue fails. Because the goal of government is to secure freedom for society, the most desirable form of government is the simplest one. The English constitution, by contrast, is harmfully complex and only enshrines tyranny.

Paine offers a deeper critique of monarchy and hereditary succession. He does this on the basis of a belief in human equality. Paine argues that biblical history demonstrates that monarchy is unchristian, inclined to violence, and to be rejected. Hereditary succession is even worse than kingship, because it arbitrarily imposes rulers—typically corrupt ones—on posterity for generations. It also produces monarchs who are arrogant and isolated from the needs and concerns of real people. Finally, he tallies a long list of wars and rebellions that monarchy and conflicts over succession have engendered in England alone, arguing that this further disproves the validity of the practice.

Paine turns to the heart of his argument in the section titled “The Present State of American Affairs.” He claims that his discussion will be grounded on nothing more than “common sense.” Because Britain has taken up arms, he argues, the time of hoping for reconciliation has passed, and it’s time for a new way of thinking. He argues that it’s a fallacy to claim that because America once thrived in its connection with Great Britain, that things will always remain that way—it’s like saying that a child must be fed baby food forever. Furthermore, America is made up of civil and religious refugees from all parts of Europe, not just England. Thus, America’s strong resources for trade and commerce will better serve the country diplomatically than Britain’s military protection ever could—Britain’s continued military oversight will only serve to ensnare America in foreign wars.

Paine shifts to an emotional appeal by charging his audience—ordinary Americans—with passivity and unfeeling temperaments if they fail to sympathize with the sufferings of besieged Boston. Anyone who looks at Britain’s recent behavior with natural human feelings should conclude that separation is the only healthy and just course of action. And even if reconciliation with Britain were now possible, King George III would insinuate himself as the oppressive ruler of America, ruining the country in the long run even if peace were achieved in the short run. Paine offers some suggestions for the future governance of an independent America, such as a Continental Congress and Charter and alternating between the colonies in the choice of a president. Always, the protection of property, freedom, and free exercise of religion should be paramount concerns for government.

Paine addresses some practical considerations for an independent America, such as the necessity of building a navy. He also points out certain favorable circumstances, such as America’s youth and ideal size (neither too small nor too confusedly populous and diverse) for drawing up and putting in place a new government. Until America takes the initiative to seek independence, he concludes, the necessity will only become more pressing and America’s circumstances more dire.

To the second and subsequent editions of Common Sense, Paine appends some responses to a speech of King George III which he describes as “a piece of […] villainy.” In the Appendix, he chiefly reiterates objections to America’s readiness for independence. For example, he argues that America has recently gained sufficient military experience in order to fight for independence, and that the longer the task is delayed, the harder it will be. The longer it’s delayed, the longer the risk of a mob or factional mentality setting in and distracting America from the task of establishing a sound constitution. Finally, he refutes a Quaker objection to rebellion, arguing that the Quakers should object to unprovoked British aggression as much as to American rebellion, or else their pacifist stance merely amounts to inconsistent, unwelcome meddling.

The LitCharts.com logo.

Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine

(1737-1809)

Who Was Thomas Paine?

Thomas Paine was an influential 18th-century writer of essays and pamphlets. Among them were "The Age of Reason," regarding the place of religion in society; "Rights of Man," a piece defending the French Revolution; and "Common Sense," which was published during the American Revolution. "Common Sense," Paine's most influential piece, brought his ideas to a vast audience, swaying the otherwise undecided public opinion to the view that independence from the British was a necessity.

Paine was born in Thetford, England, in 1737, to a Quaker father and an Anglican mother. Paine received little formal education but did learn to read, write and perform arithmetic. At the age of 13, he began working with his father as stay maker (the thick rope stays used on sailing ships) in Thetford, a shipbuilding town. Some sources state he and his father were corset makers, but most historians cite this as an example of slanders spread by his enemies. He later worked as an officer of the excise, hunting smugglers and collecting liquor and tobacco taxes. He did not excel at this job, nor at any other early job, and his life in England was, in fact, marked by repeated failures.

The Move to America

Paine arrived in Philadelphia on November 30, 1774, taking up his first regular employment — helping to edit the Pennsylvania Magazine — in January 1775. At this time, Paine began writing in earnest, publishing several articles, anonymously or under pseudonyms. One of his early articles was a scathing condemnation of the African enslaved people trade, called "African Slavery in America," which he signed under the name "Justice and Humanity." Paine's propagandist ideas were just coming together, and he couldn't have arrived in America at a better time to advance his general views and thoughts on revolution and injustice, as the conflict between the colonists and England had reached a fever pitch.

Within five months of Paine's arrival, however, the precipitating event to his most famous work would occur. After the battles of Lexington and Concord (April 19, 1775), which were the first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War, Paine argued that America should not simply revolt against taxation, but demand independence from Great Britain entirely. He expanded this idea in a 50-page pamphlet called "Common Sense," which was printed on January 10, 1776.

'Common Sense'

Worded in a way that forces the reader to make an immediate choice, "Common Sense" presented the American colonists, who were generally still undecided, with a cogent argument for full-scale revolt and freedom from British rule. And while it likely had little effect on the actual writing of the Declaration of Independence, "Common Sense" forced the issue on the streets, making the colonists see that a grave issue was upon them and that a public discussion was direly needed. Once it initiated debate, the article offered a solution for Americans who were disgusted and alarmed at the presence of tyranny in their new land, and it was passed around and read aloud often, bolstering enthusiasm for independence and encouraging recruitment for the Continental Army. ("Common Sense" is referred to by one historian as "the most incendiary and popular pamphlet of the entire revolutionary era.")

Paine wrote "Common Sense" in an unadorned style, forgoing philosophical ponderings and Latin terms, and relying instead on biblical references to speak to the common man, as would a sermon. Within just a few months, the piece sold more than 500,000 copies. "Common Sense" presents as its chief option a distinctly American political identity and, more so than any other single publication, paved the way for the Declaration of Independence, which was unanimously ratified on July 4, 1776.

'Crisis' Papers

During the American Revolution, Paine served as a volunteer personal assistant to General Nathanael Greene, traveling with the Continental Army. While not a natural soldier, Paine contributed to the patriot cause by inspiring the troops with his 16 "Crisis" papers, which appeared between 1776 and 1783. "The American Crisis. Number I" was published on December 19, 1776, and began thusly: "These are the times that try men's souls." George Washington 's troops were being decimated, and he ordered that the pamphlet be read to all of his troops at Valley Forge, in hopes of inflaming them to victory.

Government Appointment

In 1777, Congress named Paine secretary to the Committee for Foreign Affairs. The following year, however, Paine accused a member of the Continental Congress of trying to profit personally from French aid given to the United States. In revealing the scandal, Paine quoted from secret documents that he had accessed through his position at Foreign Affairs. Also around this time, in his pamphlets, Paine alluded to secret negotiations with France that were not fit for public consumption. These missteps eventually led to Paine's expulsion from the committee in 1779.

Paine soon found a new position as clerk of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania, and observed fairly quickly that American troops were disgruntled because of low (or no) pay and scarce supplies, so he started a drive at home and in France to raise what was needed. The wartime supplies that his effort provided were important to the final success of the Revolution, and the experience led him to appeal to the states, to pool resources for the well-being of the entire nation. Furthering his goal, he wrote "Public Good" (1780), calling for a national convention to replace the ineffectual Articles of Confederation with a strong central government under "a continental constitution."

Thomas Paine Books: 'Rights of Man,' 'The Age of Reason'

In April 1787, Paine headed back to England, where he soon became fascinated with what he heard of the roiling French Revolution. He immediately and passionately supported the Revolution, so when he read Edmund Burke's 1790 attack on it, he was inspired to write the book Rights of Man (1791) in a scathing response. The tract moved beyond supporting the French Revolution to discussing the basic reasons for discontent in European society, railing against an aristocratic society, and end of Europe’s inheritance laws. The British government banned the book and Paine was indicted for treason, although he was already on his way to France when the decree went out and avoided prosecution. He was later named an honorary citizen of France.

While rallying for the revolution, Paine also supported efforts to save the life of deposed King Louis XVI (instead favoring banishment), so when the radicals under Robespierre took power, Paine was sent to prison—from December 28, 1793, to November 4, 1794 — where he narrowly escaped execution. In 1794, while Paine was imprisoned, the first part of his The Age of Reason ( The Age of Reason: Being an Investigation of True and Fabulous Theology in full) was published.

The book criticizes institutionalized religion for perceived corruption and political ambition, while challenging the validity of the Bible. The book was controversial, as was everything that Paine wrote, and the British government prosecuted anyone who tried to publish or distribute it. After his 1794 release from prison, Paine stayed in France, releasing the second and third parts of The Age of Reason before returning to the United States at President Thomas Jefferson 's invitation.

Engineer and Inventor

Among his many talents, Paine was also an accomplished — though not widely-known — inventor. Some of his devices were never developed beyond the planning stage, but there are a few of note. He developed a crane for lifting heavy objects, a smokeless candle, and tinkered with the idea of using gunpowder as a method for generating power. For years, Paine had possessed a fascination with bridges. He made several attempts to build bridges in both America and England after the Revolutionary War. Perhaps his most impressive engineering achievement was the Sunderland Bridge across the Wear River at Wearmonth, England. His goal was to build a single span bridge with no piers. In 1796, the 240-foot span bridge was completed. It was the second iron bridge ever built and at the time the largest in the world. Renovated in 1857, the bridge remained until 1927, when it was replaced.

Final Years

Paine returned to the United States in 1802 or 1803, only to find that his revolutionary work, influence and reputation had mostly been forgotten, leaving only his status as a world-class rabble-rouser intact. It would take a century later before Paine's reputation would be reinstated as a vital figure to the American Revolution.

Paine died alone on June 8, 1809. Only six mourners were present at his funeral — half of them formerly enslaved. To drive home the point of his tarnished image as a mere political rabble-rouser, the New York Citizen printed the following line in Paine's obituary: "He had lived long, did some good and much harm." For more than a century following his death, this was the historical verdict handed down upon the legacy of Paine. Finally, in January 1937, the Times of London turned the tide, referring to him as the "English Voltaire" — a view that has prevailed ever since, with Paine now regarded as a seminal figure of the American Revolution.

QUICK FACTS

  • Name: Thomas Paine
  • Birth Year: 1737
  • Birth date: January 29, 1737
  • Birth City: Thetford
  • Birth Country: United Kingdom
  • Gender: Male
  • Best Known For: Thomas Paine was an English American writer and pamphleteer whose "Common Sense" and other writings influenced the American Revolution, and helped pave the way for the Declaration of Independence.
  • U.S. Politics
  • Journalism and Nonfiction
  • Astrological Sign: Aquarius
  • Death Year: 1809
  • Death date: June 8, 1809
  • Death State: New York
  • Death City: New York City
  • Death Country: United States

We strive for accuracy and fairness.If you see something that doesn't look right, contact us !

CITATION INFORMATION

  • Article Title: Thomas Paine Biography
  • Author: Biography.com Editors
  • Website Name: The Biography.com website
  • Url: https://www.biography.com/political-figures/thomas-paine
  • Access Date:
  • Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
  • Last Updated: March 31, 2021
  • Original Published Date: April 2, 2014
  • Any system of religion that has anything in it that shocks the mind of a child, cannot be true.
  • An army of principles can penetrate where an army of soldiers cannot.

Famous British People

king charles iii

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales

elton john smiles at the camera from behind a podium with a microphone, he wears a purple bejeweled suit jacket, black collared shirt, and pink tinted glasses

Christopher Nolan

helen mirren smiles at the camera, she wears a black dress with a sheer top and matching white collar and cuffs, she stands inside a crowded room with people behind her

Helen Mirren

emily blunt smiles at the camera, she wears a blue and silver floral patterned dress and stands in front of a black background with writing

Emily Blunt

princess margaret looks to the right, she wears large dangling earrings, a matching large necklace and a green and white top

The True Story of Princess Margaret’s Death

jann mardenborough stands and looks to the right of the camera with a slight frown on his face, he wears a white driver jacket with red accents and several brand logos

The Remarkable True Story Behind ‘Gran Turismo’

prince harry smiling for photographers as he walks into court

Prince Harry

aol build speaker series presents alan rickmannew york, ny june 19 actor alan rickman attends the aol build speaker series at aol studios in new york on june 19, 2015 in new york city photo by grant lamos ivgetty images

Alan Rickman

vanessa kirby looks at the camera with a slight smile, she sits in a chair and wears a blue sleeveless dress

Vanessa Kirby

banksy in black stencil letters

“Common Sense” by Thomas Paine Essay

Common sense can be expressed as good sense and ability to make reasonable decisions. It entails what people view as knowledgeable. According to Paine, in his book titled “Common Sense”, all humans were equal at creation which is quite true according to Christianity (1). An overview of the bible shows that God intended to be a universal leader for all creatures under the sun.

Hence all humans were to co-exist as one big community. The following paragraphs explore why Paine’s theory of common sense is important in the formation of governments .

Paine does not see the necessity of a government because to him the government is the worst tool of oppression. Paine uses the American government in his argument and he commences by explaining the differences between the government and the state. Paine says that the society comprises of good things achieved and possessed by the society as opposed to the government whose main objective is to withhold society’s vices. Paine suggests that governments are formed with the objective of protecting society’s possessions, freedom, and life.

Paine moves on to explain the details of the situation in America. Paine is opposed to the idea that America has flourished under the surveillance of Britain.

He supports his argument by stating that Britain uses patronship as a scape-goat to secure its own interests. Some people articulate that Britain has helped America in a great and commendable way and therefore America owes its success to Britain. Paine adds that in the latest past Britain has shifted from protecting its colonies to attacking them, hence under serving American trustworthiness.

Paine challenges colonies to disengage with Britain and consider conducting business with the rest of Europe. According to Paine prosperity can be achieved by first ensuring America has attained its Independence. Independence is very crucial because it will prevent the recurrence of mistakes that happened in the past. He suggests the kind of government structure that should be adopted by the colonies after they have attained independence. Paine argues that this kind of governance will ensure equal representation in the colonies.

He describes the military capabilities of Britain and acknowledges the same abilities for America. Although at the moment America is still less populated but assures that the current feeling of unity would not be shaken by the change of time and increase in population. The present time tends to favor America because if there was any debt incurred, America would use some parts of its land to pay for those debts (Michael 12).

Paine argues that Britain has made America to lose its respect from other countries and recommends colonies to fight for liberation because it is the only way colonies can experience success. This freedom will make it possible for America to seek help from other countries.

In his own view Paine does not see the relevance of a government because even with a government in place people still encounter the same problems that were experienced before the said government was actually formed. He points an accusing finger to the government because it has failed in its mandate to protect its citizens leading to the introduction of anarchies. Paine believes that regardless of time America will attain its independence.

Paine points out that even though America may resolve its issues with Britain the problems that were associated with the king will still be experienced. These problems will arise because Britain will introduce new taxes and also interfere with the smooth running of the government. This fact is backed by the unwillingness of Britain to set its colonies free. Paine states the advantages that come with establishment of trade relations between America and the rest of Europe in exclusion of Britain.

He quotes that the present arrangement of government hinders America from participating in relations with other nations in Europe. He further insists that colonies independence is quite vital in establishing this trade ties with other nations in Europe because it will enable the colonies to enjoy the goodies that are attached to these relations.

Paine goes on to condemn monarchy by using the British monarchy as an example of problems that are brought about by monarchy. He refers to biblical text to illustrate how evil monarchy can be. He is opposed to the idea of succession hereditary which was very common in Britain monarchy.

It was normal for a father to pass on leadership to his son, and this was to be practiced from one generation to another. This in return brought an attitude that some people were born to hold certain positions in the society. Paine quotes the bible as the origin of monarchy (Wood 67).

The people of Israel are believed to have made the worst mistake by demanding for a king through Samuel. Samuel discouraged Israelites from having a king because he was informed about the consequences of being under the authority of a king. He later gave in to their demand. God was also aware of the problems that will come with kingship and although He gave them a leader He warned them accordingly of what to expect.

Paine disapproves hereditary succession because he feels all humans are equal at creation hence there is no family that should exercise authority over others. This he says is because when a given person is accorded authority his children do not deserve the same authority as their father because all people were created as independent entity. Authority that has been passed on from one person to another by hereditary succession is there by considered not genuine.

Paine is puzzled by kingship because he does not understand where it comes from. He suggests that if the first king was chosen by elections, all the kings that will follow must go through the same procedure. Any king who will skip the process should be declared illegitimate. Paine says that hereditary succession is evil as opposed by many who see it as a way of avoiding leadership battles. He further supports his point by explaining that succession has done more harm than good.

Paine uses biblical verses to explain his displeasure with kings. He uses these verses to disapprove people who consider kings to be godly when it is very clear they are not. This thought is seen to be the underlying reason as to why people do not object to decisions made by kings.

Paine advises although America may have flourished under Britain, it should detach itself from British rule. He uses a child as an example and states that although the survival and growth of a child depends on its mother’s milk, the child should not be limited to eating other kinds of food.

Britain claims that it protected its colonies but Paine says this is not true because the main reason behind this was to ensure Britain’s interests were safeguarded. He argues that if the colonies did not rely on Britain, there would be no enmity between the nations that were enemies of Britain and its colonies.

Paine discourages reunion because he feels that reunion will cause the current situation to recur. It is difficult for Americans to accept British rule again due to the oppressions and battles associated with it (SparkNotes 1). Paine adds that America is very big to be governed by an island like Britain and that matters that concern America should be handled from close proximity.

Paine argues that if the current generation does not fight for complete liberation the children of the present leaders will have to revolt against British rule which does not leave a good impression to the generations that will come after them. Paine comes up with a proposal of government structures that he believes will satisfy the society’s expectations.

He suggests that all colonies be separated into districts and each district must send its chosen representatives to the congress. A president should be elected from one colony. Then the next time elections another colony will be given the priority to produce a president. This process is to be carried out continuously until all colonies have been given a chance to elect a president to head the congress (Craig 45). This is an important concept in the formation of arguments.

Paine says that the world expects America to unplug from Britain but no one knows when it will happen. Paine says that America is able to construct a naval vessel that can challenge the British navy. He states that American navy need only to protect its waters unlike British that covers a wide range. The American’s army sole purpose is to increase America’s business projection.

Therefore every person must be treated equally and government structures should not be constrained to one family channel. Pane’s theory is a good representation of how people should think about forming governments. For instance, Paine explains that if America was to continue being under British rule, the situation in America would have worsen with time; this is a true because America has improved on its own since independence.

He says that it is important for America to have authority on its own resources while there is still more land that lays idle. Paine argues that it is easy to unite people while the colonies are still small because once people increase the current unity will be very limited hence the fight for liberation will be difficult to launch (Paine 1).

Works Cited

Craig, Nelson. Thomas Paine: Enlightenment, Revolution and the Birth of Modern Nations. New York: Penguin Books, 2007. Print.

Michael, Isaac. The Thomas Paine Reader . New York: Penguin Classics, 1987. Print.

Paine, Thomas. Common Sense . 14 Feb. 1776. Web.

SparkNotes. Common Sense . n.d. Web.

Wood, Gordon. The American Revolution: A history. New York: Modern Library, 2002. Print.

  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, May 7). "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine. https://ivypanda.com/essays/common-sense/

""Common Sense" by Thomas Paine." IvyPanda , 7 May 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/common-sense/.

IvyPanda . (2019) '"Common Sense" by Thomas Paine'. 7 May.

IvyPanda . 2019. ""Common Sense" by Thomas Paine." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/common-sense/.

1. IvyPanda . ""Common Sense" by Thomas Paine." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/common-sense/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . ""Common Sense" by Thomas Paine." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/common-sense/.

  • Declaration of Independence: Thomas Paine, Common Sense and Thomas Jefferson
  • Thomas Paine's Vision and Legacy
  • Thomas Paine, Common Sense and Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence
  • The Declaration of Independence: The Three Copies and Drafts, and Their Relation to Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense”
  • Thomas Paine: Liberal and Conservative Ideas
  • US History: ”Common Sense” by Thomas Pain
  • Thomas Paine's Quotes on Religion and Politics
  • Exploration of Thomas Paine’s Theory
  • The Life and Work of Thomas Paine
  • Common Sense of Barry Pain
  • “American expansion and the origins of Deep South” by Adam Rothman
  • Social, Economic and Political Conditions of a Slovak Immigrant Group Change from the 1880’s to the 1930’s
  • Branch Davidians and the Waco, Texas Massacre
  • Jewish Experience in «Maus» by Art Spiegelman
  • Barack Obama as President of the United States

FOX News

On this day in history, January 10, 1776, Thomas Paine publishes 'Common Sense,' explosive call to rebellion

T homas Paine, a reluctant English tax collector and failed businessman who arrived in America on the eve of revolution, published "Common Sense" on this day in history, Jan. 10, 1776. 

"In the following pages I offer nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments and common sense," Paine wrote.

"The cause of America is, in a great measure, the cause of all mankind."

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, JANUARY 9, 2007, STEVE JOBS INTRODUCES APPLE iPHONE AT MACWORLD IN SAN FRANCISCO

The explosive treatise fueled revolution in the minds of the American people. It implored colonists to stand behind the heroic rebellion against the British crown underway in Massachusetts . 

The American Revolution was in its infancy at the time. The Massachusetts Minutemen had routed the British army at Concord in April 1775 and chased the Redcoats all the way back to Boston. 

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

An army of New England farmers, now under the leadership of General George Washington of Virginia, was laying siege to the Brits in Boston in the winter of 1775-76. 

"Common Sense" scripted the next chapter. It proved wildly popular and helped inspire the Declaration of Independence just six months later.

KIRK CAMERON, ‘RESPONDING TO THE CRIES OF PARENTS’ WHO ‘FEEL BULLIED,’ IS HEADED TO MORE PUBLIC LIBRARIES

It was simply worded but philosophically profound, published in the rabble-rousing pamphlet format popular in the era. 

Paine wrote, with great gravitas, "We have it in our power to begin the world over again."

The New Testament notion of a new beginning for fallen humanity served as the spiritual foundation of the Revolutionary War generation. Paine filled his work with references to the failures of the kings of the Old Testament. 

"Paine's ‘Common Sense’ made an irrefutable argument for separation from England and described the revolution as not only achievable but inevitable," writes the Thomas Paine Society. 

"Throughout the colonies letters to newspapers quoted Paine's words. ‘Nothing else is talked of,’ wrote Bostonian Andrew Elliot to a friend in London. ‘I know not what can be done by Great Britain to prevent it.’"

Many of the searing criticisms in "Common Sense" of overbearing, unaccountable government ring as true today as they did in 1776. 

"Society in every state is a blessing, but government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one," Paine wrote.

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, JAN. 8, 1790, GEORGE WASHINGTON DELIVERS FIRST-EVER STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS 

Paine's call to intellectual and physical arms " sold 120,000 copies in its first three months, and by the end of the Revolution, 500,000 copies were sold," reports the National Constitution Center. 

"The estimated population of the Colonies (excluding its African-American and Native American populations) was 2.5 million."

It’s as if a book sold 66 million copies by today's U.S. population — making "Common Sense" perhaps the best-selling work in American history.

Paine mocked the idea of monarchy as a legitimate form of rule. It was a truly revolutionary concept among a species governed since the dawn of recorded time by strongmen, tyrants and hereditary rulers.

"There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of monarchy," wrote Paine. "The state of the king shuts him from the world, but the business of a king requires him to know it thoroughly."

Paine was born in Thetford, England, on Feb. 9, 1737.  

"He later worked as an officer of the excise, hunting smugglers and collecting liquor and tobacco taxes. He did not excel at this job, nor at any other early job, and his life in England was, in fact, marked by repeated failures," writes Biography.com. 

"In the spring of 1774, Paine was fired from the excise office and began to see his outlook as bleak. Luckily, he soon met Benjamin Franklin, who advised him to move to America and provided him with letters of introduction to the soon-to-be-formed nation."

MEET THE AMERICAN WHO ROWED WASHINGTON ACROSS THE DELAWARE ON CHRISTMAS: SAILOR-SOLDIER JOHN GLOVER

Like many before and millions more after, Paine found new hope in America. 

He arrived in Philadelphia on Nov. 30, 1774, just six months before protest turned to open warfare at the Battles of Lexington and Concord. 

Among his first efforts in America, Paine published a scathing indictment of the global slave trade. 

The Englishman reserved his greatest monarchial mockery for the British crown in particular.

"No man in his senses can say that their claim under William the Conquerer is a very honorable one," Paine wrote of the Norman invader who defeated Anglo-Saxon King Harold in 1066. 

"A French bastard landing with an armed banditti and establishing himself as king of England against the consent of the natives is, in plain terms, a very paltry rascally original — it certainly hath no divinity in it." 

"Paine's convincing arguments against the monarchy and British domination spread like wildfire throughout the colonies and turned the public tide toward independence," writes the Thomas Paine Society. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

George Washington proclaimed, "I find that ‘Common Sense’ is working a powerful change there in the minds of many men. Few pamphlets have had so dramatic an effect on political events."

Some scholars argue that Paine played a silent role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Whether true or not, his contributions to the cause of revolution were far from over.

He published "The Crisis" with Washington’s army in tatters after repeated routs and the cause of independence about to collapse.

"These are the times that try men’s souls," Paine famously wrote with poetic passion on Dec. 23, 1776. 

"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph."

Two days later, on Christmas night, Washington led his army on a daring raid across the Delaware River to overwhelm a Hessian outpost of the British crown in Trenton, New Jersey .

"The Crisis" had now turned in America’s favor — in favor of Paine's "cause of all mankind." 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Original article source: On this day in history, January 10, 1776, Thomas Paine publishes 'Common Sense,' explosive call to rebellion

A memorial engraving of Thomas Paine, with a smirk on his face, containing his dates of birth and death, with text reading, "The World is my Country and to do Good my Religion," as figures of religion and law shield themselves from his image, 1815. From the New York Public Library. Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

IMAGES

  1. Thomas Paine Common Sense (300 Words)

    common sense essay by thomas paine

  2. Common Sense by Thomas Paine (English) Paperback Book Free Shipping

    common sense essay by thomas paine

  3. Common Sense by Thomas Paine

    common sense essay by thomas paine

  4. Propaganda's Impact in American History Free Essay Example

    common sense essay by thomas paine

  5. Common Sense Audiobook, written by Thomas Paine

    common sense essay by thomas paine

  6. PPT

    common sense essay by thomas paine

VIDEO

  1. 'Common Sense' by Thomas Paine, chapter II, 'Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession' in Hindi

  2. Essay Session

  3. Essay Session

  4. Life in a Big city _ Essay

  5. Thomas Paine Sang "Common Sense" Menyamarkan Identitas !! #sejarah #sejarahdunia

  6. Giving And Interpretting Criticism Well

COMMENTS

  1. PDF COMMON SENSE FULL TEXT "for God's sake, let us come New York Public

    National Humanities Center Thomas Paine, Common Sense, 1776, 3d ed., full text incl. Appendix 4 18. The two first, by being hereditary, are independent of the people; wherefore in a . constitutional sense. they contribute nothing towards the freedom of the state. 19. To say that the constitution of England is a . union. of three powers ...

  2. Common Sense: Full Work Summary

    Full Work Summary Previous Next In Common Sense, Thomas Paine argues for American independence. His argument begins with more general, theoretical reflections about government and religion, then progresses onto the specifics of the colonial situation. Paine begins by distinguishing between government and society.

  3. Thomas Paine's Common Sense, 1776

    "Common Sense" makes for straightforward reading. Paine's words are strong and honest, he writes with courage, makes no apologies, asks for no forgiveness. The pamphlet is split into four main sections, preceded by an introduction.

  4. How Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' Helped Inspire the American ...

    Common Sense, written by Thomas Paine and first published in Philadelphia in January 1776, was in part a scathing polemic against the injustice of rule by a king.

  5. A Summary and Analysis of Thomas Paine's Common Sense

    Common Sense: summary Paine's pamphlet is a polemical work, so he is not setting out to offer a balanced and even-handed appraisal of the facts. Instead, he views his role as that of rabble-rouser, stoking the fires of revolution in the heart of every American living under British rule in the Thirteen Colonies.

  6. The Project Gutenberg eBook of Common Sense, by Thomas Paine

    The Project Gutenberg eBook of Common Sense, by Thomas Paine This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever.

  7. Common Sense: Study Questions & Answers

    Thomas Paine and Common Sense Background Study Questions & Answers Suggested Essay Topics Suggested Further Reading Quick Quizzes Book Full Book Quiz Study Questions & Answers Previous Next How is Paine's view of government connected to his arguments for revolution?

  8. Thomas Paine: Quotes, Summary & Common Sense

    "Common Sense" is credited as playing a crucial role in convincing colonists to take up arms against England. In it, Paine argues that representational government is superior to a monarchy or...

  9. Common Sense Study Guide

    Soon after, Franklin gave Paine a letter of recommendation, allowing Paine to move and settle in Britain's American colonies in 1774. Paine began working as a writer and editor, finding success in pitching his essays to a common audience. In 1776, he anonymously published Common Sense and soon followed it up with The American Crisis. After ...

  10. Common Sense

    In Common Sense, Thomas Paine cast himself as "under no sort of Influence public or private, but the influence of reason and principle." ( Library of Congress)

  11. Common Sense by Thomas Paine

    8 by Thomas Paine. Common Sense by Thomas Paine. Read now or download (free!) Choose how to read this book Url Size; ... Paine, Thomas, 1737-1809: Title: Common Sense Language: English: LoC Class: E201: History: America: Revolution (1775-1783) Subject: United States -- Politics and government -- 1775-1783

  12. Thomas Paine

    Thomas Paine (born January 29, 1737, Thetford, Norfolk, England—died June 8, 1809, New York, New York, U.S.) English-American writer and political pamphleteer whose Common Sense pamphlet and Crisis papers were important influences on the American Revolution.Other works that contributed to his reputation as one of the greatest political propagandists in history were Rights of Man, a defense ...

  13. Thomas Paine publishes "Common Sense"

    1776 Thomas Paine publishes "Common Sense" On January 10, 1776, writer Thomas Paine publishes his pamphlet "Common Sense," setting forth his arguments in favor of American independence....

  14. Common Sense by Thomas Paine

    The Significance of Thomas Paine's Common Sense 1. Advocated for American independence "Common Sense" was a groundbreaking pamphlet published by Thomas Paine in 1776, during a critical time in American history. Paine's central argument was for the complete independence of the American colonies from British rule. Also Read: Thomas Paine Timeline

  15. Common Sense: Study Guide

    Common Sense is a pamphlet by British-born American political activist, philosopher, and theorists Thomas Paine that was first published in 1775.In it, Paine argues that the American colonies should seek full independence from Britain. The pamphlet convinced many who were unsure of the purpose of the war and played a profound role in influencing the opinion of laymen and lawmakers alike.

  16. Common Sense by Thomas Paine Plot Summary

    Common Sense Summary. Thomas Paine argues that because the American colonies have suffered oppression at the hands of Britain's King and Parliament, Americans are justified in investigating and even rejecting Britain's "usurping" power. He further argues that Britain has attacked "natural rights" that should be of concern to ...

  17. Thomas Paine

    Virtually every American Patriot read his 47-page pamphlet Common Sense, [6] [7] which catalyzed the call for independence from Great Britain. The American Crisis was a pro-independence pamphlet series. Paine lived in France for most of the 1790s, becoming deeply involved in the French Revolution.

  18. Thomas Paine

    "Common Sense," Paine's most influential piece, brought his ideas to a vast audience, swaying the otherwise undecided public opinion to the view that independence from the British was a...

  19. Common Sense Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession Summary ...

    A summary of Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession in Thomas Paine's Common Sense. Learn exactly what happened in this chapter, scene, or section of Common Sense and what it means. Perfect for acing essays, tests, and quizzes, as well as for writing lesson plans.

  20. "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine

    We will write a custom essay on your topic a custom Essay on "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine. 808 writers online . Learn More . Hence all humans were to co-exist as one big community. The following paragraphs explore why Paine's theory of common sense is important in the formation of governments.

  21. Thomas Paine Common Sense Essay

    654 Words3 Pages. This essay will be discussing and analyzing the document: Common Sense by Thomas Paine. Thomas Paine was an American founding father and very influential in the the enlightenment movement that started in 1714. Thomas Paine wrote common sense so people would begin thinking and discussing the way the British had been treating ...

  22. On this day in history, January 10, 1776, Thomas Paine publishes ...

    Thomas Paine published "Common Sense" on this day in history, Jan. 10, 1776. He savaged monarchies, inspired the colonies to rebellion and sold the equivalent of 66 million copies today.

  23. Common Sense: Suggested Essay Topics

    Common Sense: Suggested Essay Topics | SparkNotes Common Sense Study Guide Thomas Paine Study Guide Full Text Summary Summary & Analysis Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession Thoughts on the Present State of Affairs in America Appendix to Common Sense Full Work Full Work Summary Key Facts Key Terms Terms Core Ideas Core Ideas Quotes