Common Sense by Thomas Paine

First published anonymously due to its seditious content in 1776, the pamphlet argues for the need of American colonists to pursue complete independence from Great Britain, and not be driven simply by the urge to free themselves from unfair taxation. Paine provides argumentation for his revolutionary ideas, suggesting the unification of colonial forces to achieve this goal. Furthermore, Paine strengthens his case by clearly asserting the advantages that would come out as a result of independence, and further fortifies his argumentation with religious references. Written in a clear straightforward manner and comprehensible to the common people, Common Sense was immediately well-received after its publication, providing both inspiration and motivation to strive towards obtaining freedom. Consequently, the pamphlet was widely distributed and read at public events, while its ideas later earned Paine an important position in the country’s history. Divided into four sections, Paine begins