Thomas Paine Flashcards
Where and when was Thomas Paine born?
England in 1736
when did Paine move to American colonies?
1774
What did Paine become the editor of in 1775?
Pennsylvania Magazine
When was Common Sense published?
January 1776
Common Sense
short pamphlet to argue in favor of revolution
convinces public to go ALL in on removing themselves from British empire
Common Sense broken into 4 parts
origin design of government
monarchy and hereditary succession
present state affairs in america
present ability of America
origin design of government
difference between society and government
society is inevitable
government constrains behavior
Why do elections become necessary?
hold the group together
monarchy and hereditary succession
uses biblical references to describe how people came to the decision to adopt monarchy
3 ways to attain power (election, by lot, usurpation)
If a king is elected…
you can’t appoint your son as king
if a king is chosen by lot…
they should all be chosen by lot
you can’t choose your son to be your successor
if a king is a usurper…
entire reign is illegitimate
taking land by force
is hereditary succession illegitimate?
yes
Present state affairs in america
responds to those who say American has done well under British rule
America gains nothing
adopt rules without permission
present ability of america
win against British
separation from Britain is inevitable
raise a navy to rival British and guard its coast
gain independence sooner to claim land to the west
