Common Sense

On January 10th, 250 years ago, a relatively unknown immigrant from England published a 47-page pamphlet called Common Sense. It would change the course of American history.

This immigrant, Thomas Paine, outlined a common sense case for revolution against the British.

Three Big Arguments

Let’s look at Paine’s 3 big arguments for revolution.

1. Monarchy is unjust - Paine took direct aim at the king, declaring the whole concept of monarchy as unjust. After all, he pointed out, the British monarchy was founded by a "French bastard" landing with an armed band of robbers.
2. America needs independence - Furthermore, he argued, America didn’t need England. It needed to stand on its own. Britain dragged America into unnecessary wars, limited its trade, and treated the colonies as economic property. The only logical step forward was complete independence.
3. Democratic vision - Instead of reliance on monarchy, Paine offered a vision of a democratic republic with power vested in the people. Thus, Americans could create a more just system.

Impact

Common Sense was an instant hit, selling over 100 thousand copies in 3 months. By the end of the Revolution, nearly 1 in 5 American households owned a copy. Furthermore, it was commonly shared and read aloud, spreading its ideas throughout the colonies.

The impact was electric. Where once most Americans hoped for reconciliation with the king, 

now many fiercely took up Paine’s call for independence. In taverns across America, the traditional toast to the King’s health ended. Instead, patrons began toasting liberty and independence. Thus, Common Sense paved the way for the Declaration of Independence.

And there you have it – America 250 years ago. Stay tuned for more updates leading to America’s 250th birthday.