Political thought Flashcards
What did Thomas Paine do?
Published a pamphlet “common sense” in 1776.
What was its impact?
It sold over 100,000 copies very quickly.
What did the pamphlet argue/do?
Pamphlet attacked the English constitution, criticising monarchical rule and hereditary succession. Encouraged Americans to establish a republic. Convinced many Americans who had feared breaking ties with Britain to demand for full independence.
Why was Common Sense so influential?
Paine’s style was clear, direct and accessible- aimed at ordinary people rather than intellectual elites. By doing so he democratised political thought and encouraged active participation in the revolution- galvanised opposition in normal Americans- made the case for independence not just an intellectual debate but a movement that anyone could understand and support.
What did John Dickinson do?
Lawyer and a politician.
What did John Dickinson publish?
1768- “Letters of a Pennsylvania Farmer”.
What did Dickinson’s work argue?
Argued that Britain was attacking the liberties of the colonists by suspending the NY assembly.
Why was Dickinson’s work influential?
influential in the claim that Britain did not have the right to tax colonists without their consent. The British therefore appeared tyrannical and so this would have created opposition.
Why did Dickinson’s work have such an impact?
Literacy rates were higher in America than they were in Britain, and so the article would have found a readier and wider audience than expected. Letters were widely circulated and helped spread awareness of the legal and philosophical underpinnings of colonial resistance to British actions. Letters provided justification for many actions taken by Sam Adams. Writings also encouraged other writers to attack the powers of Britain.
What did Dickinson’s work lead to?
Growing power of literacy- by 1774, some pamphlets and newspapers openly discussed independence, and by 1775 there was 42 colonial newspapers, mainly concentrated in New England.
