Revolutionary and Early National Period

Question 1

Common Sense
by Thomas Paine

Answer 1

: was a booklet that told Americans they should be free from Britain. Paine said it made sense for the colonies to have their own government instead of being ruled by a king far away. He wanted people to believe they could choose their own leaders and have their own rights. Many people read Common Sense and felt inspired to help create a new, free country.

Question 2

Characteristics of Revolutionary Period of American Literature

Answer 2

1. American writers focused on freedom and independence. They wrote about why it was important for the American colonies to break away from British rule and create their own government. Thomas Paine’s Common Sense helped people understand why they needed to fight for freedom.
2. A lot of the writing tried to convince people to support the Revolution. Many pamphlets, speeches, and essays explained why the colonies should become their own country. Paine’s The American Crisis encouraged people to keep fighting.
3. Writers were also inspired by the ideas of the Enlightenment, which believed in using reason and science to solve problems. They wanted people to learn, think for themselves, and make things better.
4. As they fought for freedom, Americans began to think about what it meant to be part of the new country. Writers talked about being proud of their nation and its values, like fairness and unity. They also believed it was important to be good, responsible people to help the country grow.

Question 3

The Significance of the Revolutionary and Early National Period

Answer 3

1. It marked the beginning of the United States.
2. The colonies fought for independence from Britain, and writers helped spread ideas about freedom, democracy, and the rights of people.
3. Important documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were created.
4. This period also saw the start of American literature, where writers expressed what it meant to be an American.