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Common Sense Summary
Common Sense by Thomas Paine is a pivotal pamphlet that advocated for American independence from British rule. Published in 1776, it presented compelling arguments for self-governance, influencing public opinion and the course of the American Revolution.
Common Sense Excerpt
Short Summary: In Common Sense, Thomas Paine argues for American independence, critiquing monarchy and advocating for a democratic republic. His persuasive writing galvanized colonial sentiment towards revolution.
"Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one..." Paine begins by distinguishing between society and government, emphasizing that while society is a positive construct that unites people, government is an institution whose sole purpose is to protect us from our own vices. He critiques the English constitution and hereditary succession, arguing that it is absurd for a continent to be perpetually governed by an island. Paine's eloquent reasoning and accessible language made complex political ideas understandable to the common colonist, igniting a desire for independence. He writes, "The sun never shined on a cause of greater worth." His call to action is clear: the time for debate is over; it is time for America to break free from tyranny and establish a government that derives its power from the consent of the governed. Paine's work not only challenged the status quo but also inspired a nation to envision a future founded on the principles of liberty and equality."
