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Thomas Paine: A Man of Reason

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Thomas Paine was an English-born American political activist, philosopher, and revolutionary. He is best known for his two influential pamphlets, "Common Sense" and "The Rights of Man", which helped to inspire the American Revolution. Paine also played a prominent role in the French Revolution, and he was elected to the National Convention in 1792.

Man of Reason: The Life of Thomas Paine

by Gladys Malvern

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Language	:	English
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Paine was born in Thetford, England, in 1737. He was the son of a Quaker staymaker, and he received little formal education. However, he was a voracious reader, and he developed a deep interest in politics and philosophy. In 1774, Paine emigrated to the American colonies, where he quickly became involved in the debate over independence from Great Britain.

In January 1776, Paine published "Common Sense", a pamphlet that argued for American independence. The pamphlet was a huge success, and it helped to convince many Americans that independence was the best course of action. Paine followed up "Common Sense" with "The Rights of Man" in 1791, which defended the French Revolution and argued for the universal rights of man.

Paine's writings had a profound impact on the course of both the American and French Revolutions. He was a powerful advocate for democracy and human rights, and his ideas continue to inspire people around the world.

Paine's Life and Career

Thomas Paine was born in Thetford, England, on January 29, 1737. His parents were Joseph Paine, a Quaker staymaker, and Frances Cocke Paine. Paine received little formal education, but he was a voracious reader and developed a deep interest in politics and philosophy.

In 1774, Paine emigrated to the American colonies, where he quickly became involved in the debate over independence from Great Britain. He published "Common Sense" in January 1776, which argued for American independence. The pamphlet was a huge success, and it helped to convince many Americans that independence was the best course of action.

After the American Revolution, Paine returned to England, where he published "The Rights of Man" in 1791. The pamphlet defended the French Revolution and argued for the universal rights of man. Paine's writings were controversial, and he was forced to flee England in 1792.

Paine spent the rest of his life in France and the United States. He died in New York City on June 8, 1809.

Paine's Legacy

Thomas Paine was a powerful advocate for democracy and human rights. His writings had a profound impact on the course of both the American and French Revolutions. Paine's ideas continue to inspire people around the world.

Paine's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a brilliant writer and a passionate advocate for his beliefs. However, he was also a controversial figure, and his writings were often criticized for being too radical.

Despite the controversy, there is no doubt that Thomas Paine was one of the most important figures in the history of democracy. His writings helped to inspire the American Revolution, and they continue to inspire people around the world to fight for their freedom.