Common Sense
Thomas Paine, 1776
Thomas Paine's pamphlet urging the American colonists to declare their independence from Great Britain, with an attack on monarchy and hereditary succession and an argument that America can stand on its own.
Famous quotes
A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong gives it a superficial appearance of being right.
by Thomas Paine.In context- First published 10 January 1776, the most commonly reproduced edition is the third, published on 14 February 1776In context
The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind.
Part 1In contextSociety is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness
Part 1In contextGovernment, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.
(January 10, 1776)In context- Part 1In context
In the following pages I offer nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense
Part 2In context- Part 2In context
- Part 2In context
There is something very absurd, in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island.
Part 2In context- Part 2In context
- Part 2In context
- Part 2In context
When we are planning for posterity, we ought to remember, that virtue is not hereditary.
Part 3In context