Author: Thomas Paine / Year: 1737- 1809 / Genre:Self Improvement 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.
