Historian Interpretations

Question 1

Thomas Paine

Answer 1

• wrote Common Sense
• He was declared radical by John Adams, however he historians see him as a significant revolutionary as it Common Sense heavily influenced the American population’s ideas.

Question 2

John Jay

Answer 2

Supported the revolution

• recognised the failures of the Articles of confederation
• supported a stronger, centralised government

Question 3

Howard Zinn

Answer 3

• more political view
• believed American leaders used the rhetoric of equality and universal liberty to exploit Americans in order to secure their own interests

Question 4

Whig (justified revolution)

Answer 4

Washington, Jefferson, Franklin

- all supported liberty and democracy