and as the King of England hath undertaken in his OWN RIGHT, to support the Parliament in what he calls THEIRS, and as the good people of this country are grievously oppressed by the combination, they have an undoubted privilege to inquire into the pretensions of both, and equally to reject the usurpation of either
Paine is not only speaking to the American people, but calling out the British monarchy and government directly.
Thomas Paine, Common Sense
How did Paine manage to print this pamphlet and share it without getting caught?
it is the pride of kings which throws mankind into confusion.
A statement that can be seen in many civilizations throughout history.
Thomas Paine Calls for American independence, 1776
The year the Declaration of Independence was signed, Paine's pamphlet reflected the thoughts of many Americans.
His criticisms swept across the North American continent and generated widespread support for American independence.
It is important to note that while Paine was rallying patriots together, he was also putting a large target on his back. Loyalists were no doubt trying to squash any form of rebellion, physical or literary.
O ye that love mankind! Ye that dare oppose, not only the tyranny, but the tyrant, stand forth!
Paine is attempting to rally the Americans who are tired of being ruled by Great Britain.
Thomas Paine
Thomas Paine was an American writer, using pamphlets such as "Common Sense" that we read here to promote American independence. His work heavily inspired the American people, and provided morale to its soldiers during the revolutionary war.
Thomas Paine Calls for American independence, 1776
In 1776, Thomas Paine put out a pamphlet on how he felt about the British government. During the early colonial years, many colonists felt that their government could do no wrong. It was common that full faith was instilled into their parliament. However, colonists began to question their government across the ocean as time went on. Tensions were at an all time high, and were leading up to the revolution.
usurpation
Usurpation: the act of taking or seizing something, especially a position of power or authority, without having the right to do so.
tumult
Tumult: a loud, confused noise, especially one caused by a large mass of people.