Thomas Paine

Definition

Thomas Paine was an influential political writer and revolutionary thinker in the late 18th century, best known for his works that inspired American independence and democratic ideals. His writings, particularly 'Common Sense' and 'The American Crisis,' played a crucial role in rallying support for the American Revolution and promoting Enlightenment principles such as liberty, equality, and reasoned governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thomas Paine was born in England in 1737 and emigrated to America in 1774, where he quickly became involved in revolutionary politics.
2. 'Common Sense' was published in January 1776 and is credited with galvanizing colonial sentiment towards independence, selling over 100,000 copies within a few months.
3. Paine's 'The American Crisis' series was written to inspire American soldiers during the Revolutionary War, famously starting with 'These are the times that try men's souls.'
4. Paine advocated for democratic governance and social welfare, arguing that society is a collective effort that should ensure the well-being of its citizens.
5. Despite his immense influence during the Revolution, Paine fell out of favor after the war, particularly due to his radical views and criticism of organized religion.

Review Questions

• How did Thomas Paine's writing style contribute to the effectiveness of his arguments for American independence?
  • Thomas Paine's writing style was direct, accessible, and persuasive, making complex ideas about independence and governance easy for the general public to understand. He used clear language and compelling rhetoric that appealed to emotions and reason alike. This approach helped him connect with a wide audience, allowing his arguments in 'Common Sense' to resonate deeply with colonists who were unsure about breaking away from British rule.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Common Sense' on the political climate leading up to the American Revolution.
  • 'Common Sense' had a profound impact on the political climate by articulating a clear argument for independence at a time when many were still loyal to Britain. It challenged the legitimacy of monarchy and proposed a vision of a democratic republic based on Enlightenment ideals. This pamphlet not only sparked debate but also emboldened many colonists to support revolutionary actions, paving the way for the Declaration of Independence later that year.
• Assess how Thomas Paine's ideas reflect the values of the Enlightenment and their relevance to modern democratic principles.
  • Thomas Paine's ideas reflect key Enlightenment values such as reason, individual rights, and the importance of civic responsibility. His arguments for democracy and against tyranny laid the groundwork for modern political thought by emphasizing that government should be accountable to its citizens. These principles continue to resonate today as they underpin contemporary discussions about democracy, human rights, and social justice, illustrating how Enlightenment ideals remain relevant in ongoing struggles for freedom worldwide.

Related terms

Common Sense: A pamphlet published by Thomas Paine in 1776 that argued for American independence from British rule and became a bestseller, significantly influencing public opinion.

The Age of Reason: A philosophical work by Thomas Paine that advocates for deism and critiques organized religion, emphasizing the importance of reason and rational thought.

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority, significantly shaping modern political thought.