Common Sense By Thomas Paine January 10, 1776 Rallying, Influencing, Motivating.

Thomas Paine Born in Great Britain, January 29, 1737 Self-taught Immigrated to America 1774 Involved in American political life

“I offer nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense,” Argued strongly for COMPLETE American Independence, not just freedom from British taxation

What was “Common Sense?” Revolutionary war pamphlet English, 48 pages First published anonymously January 10, 1776 Sold 500,000 copies in first year & 25 editions Precursor to the Declaration of Independence, which was written six months later

How did Common Sense succeed in inspiring so much revolutionary feeling?

Used forceful everyday language, influencing workers to attack the idea that the British King should rule the American Colonies American independence would be a victory for humans everywhere Words convinced many Americans that the cause of independence was a just one Played a central role in rallying public opinion; convinced many who were unsure of the purpose of the war

"Without the pen of the author of Common Sense, the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain.” – John Adams