Common Sense
With the Whole Appendix: the Address to the Quakers: Also, the Large Additions

First published in 1776, this pamphlet by British political radical Thomas Paine (1737–1809) outlined his ideas for American independence.

Thomas Paine (Author)

9781108035194, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 10 November 2011

178 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1 cm, 0.23 kg

This famous pamphlet - published anonymously in 1776 because of its seditious content - by the British political radical Thomas Paine (1737–1809) laid out his pioneering ideas for American independence, and earned him the title of 'Father of the American Revolution'. The Declaration of Independence, written chiefly by Thomas Jefferson and famously promulgated later that year, was influenced by Paine's arguments in this work: that America was too large to be governed by a country as small as Britain - which, he claimed, was ruling America only for its own financial gain - and that the colonies had now achieved the financial and military capacity to break free. Criticising the British monarchical system, with a single figure at its pinnacle, Paine called instead for a government that promoted security, liberty and equality for its people. Over half a million copies of this highly influential document were sold in America in its first year.

Introduction
Common Sense
Additions to Common Sense
Appendix to Common Sense
A dialogue between the ghost of General Montgomery, and an American delegate.

Subject Areas: History of the Americas [HBJK]