1. Common Sense Persuasive pamphlet written by Thomas Paine 37 years old
Arrived to America a year before
Former school teacher
Knew no one, had no money
Within two years was the most successful writer in America
Wrote against independence initially

2. Pamphlet urges people to declare independence from King George III
Written January 9, 1776
Consisted of 47 pages
Cost 2 shillings
Half a million copies were sold in months

3. What Common Sense States
King’s succession is absurd
Demolishes all arguments of reconciling with the King
Shows economic gains for independence

4. Impact That’s one for every 20 Americans (at the time)
Equivalent of 15 million copies today
HELPS PERSUADE COLONISTS THAT DECLARING INDEPENDENCE IS NECESSARY!