5 Key Points of Thomas Paine's Common Sense

Thomas Paine's Revolutionary Pamphlet: A Breakdown of Common Sense

In January 1776, Thomas Paine published a pamphlet that would change the course of American history. Common Sense, as it came to be known, was a passionate and eloquent argument for American independence from Great Britain. The pamphlet’s impact was immediate and profound, selling over 500,000 copies in its first year of publication and influencing many of the Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Here, we’ll explore the five key points of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense.

The Bible and Monarchy

Paine begins his argument by challenging the notion that monarchy is ordained by God. He argues that the Bible does not support the idea of hereditary monarchy, citing examples from the Old Testament where the Israelites rejected kings and instead chose to be governed by judges and elders. Paine asserts that the idea of monarchy is a product of human sin and that it is contrary to the principles of liberty and equality.

📖 Note: Paine's use of biblical references was a clever tactic, as it allowed him to speak to his audience in a language they understood and respected.

The Nature of Government

Paine next turns his attention to the nature of government, arguing that its primary purpose is to protect the rights and interests of its citizens. He claims that government is a necessary evil, but one that should be limited in its power and scope. Paine advocates for a system of government based on reason and representation, rather than hereditary privilege and tradition.

Key Characteristics of Good Government:

• Limited power: Government should only have the power necessary to protect its citizens and maintain order. • Representation: Citizens should have a voice in government through elected representatives. • Accountability: Government should be accountable to its citizens and subject to regular elections and checks on power.

The Problem with Great Britain

Paine’s most scathing criticisms are reserved for the British government, which he portrays as corrupt, inefficient, and tyrannical. He argues that the British system of government is based on a complex web of privilege and patronage, rather than merit or justice. Paine claims that the British government is more interested in maintaining its own power and wealth than in serving the needs of its citizens.

🚫 Note: Paine's criticisms of Great Britain were not just theoretical; he had personal experience with the injustices of the British system, having been forced to flee England due to his radical politics.

The Case for Independence

Paine’s central argument is that the American colonies have outgrown their relationship with Great Britain and should seek independence. He argues that the colonies are already, in effect, independent, and that it is only a matter of time before they are forced to assert their independence through violence. Paine claims that independence will allow the colonies to create their own system of government, based on the principles of liberty and equality.

Benefits of Independence:

• Self-government: The colonies will be able to govern themselves and make their own decisions. • Economic growth: Independence will allow the colonies to develop their own economy and trade freely with other nations. • Freedom from tyranny: The colonies will be free from the tyranny of the British government and its corrupt system of patronage and privilege.

A New American Identity

Finally, Paine argues that independence will allow the American colonies to create a new identity for themselves, based on the principles of liberty and equality. He claims that the colonies have the opportunity to create a new kind of nation, one that is not based on hereditary privilege or traditional power structures. Paine argues that this new American identity will be based on the values of hard work, self-reliance, and democracy.

In conclusion, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense is a powerful and influential pamphlet that played a significant role in shaping the American Revolution. Its five key points – challenging the notion of monarchy, outlining the nature of government, criticizing Great Britain, making the case for independence, and envisioning a new American identity – continue to resonate with readers today.