Common Sense by Thomas Paine

Common Sense remains a classic work of political writing and a symbol of Paine's influence as a leading voice in the fight for American liberty.

Common Sense by Thomas Paine, published in 1776, is a powerful and influential pamphlet that argued for American independence from British rule. Written in clear, persuasive, and passionate language, it made the case for liberty and self-governance, urging the thirteen American colonies to break free from the tyranny of King George III and establish a democratic republic.

Paine's pamphlet was a key catalyst in mobilizing public opinion and encouraging colonial leaders to pursue independence. He appealed to reason, practical considerations, and moral imperatives, criticizing the hereditary monarchy and the injustices of British control over the colonies. Paine laid out both philosophical arguments for natural rights and pragmatic discussions on the benefits of independence, including trade freedom and self-determination.

Accessible to a wide audience thanks to its straightforward prose, Common Sense sold hundreds of thousands of copies and quickly became a bestseller, significantly shaping public debate at a critical juncture in American history. Its impact is credited with uniting colonists across socioeconomic lines and preparing the ideological groundwork for the Declaration of Independence.

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