Common Sense (1776)
By Thomas Paine
In January 1776, Thomas Paine published Common Sense. It was extremely popular among the colonists. It made the case for American independence by arguing
that the colonists were exploited by Britain and making the King of England the villain.
“In the following pages I offer nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense…”
QUOTES
I have heard it said, that America has flourished under her
connection to England – the same connection is necessary
towards its future happiness. Nothing can be more false
than this kind of argument.
We have had the protection of England – she did not protect
us from our enemies on our account, but from her enemies
on her own account – without England we would be at
peace with France and Spain.
England is the parent country, say some. Then the more
shame upon her conduct. Even brutes do not make war
upon their families – in a free country the law ought to be
king and there ought to be no other.
Nothing but independence can keep peace – a government
of our own is our natural right- the last cord has been
broken, there are injuries which we cannot forgive.
There is something absurd, in supposing a continent to be
perpetually governed by an island.
MEANING
On the back, create a cover for the pamphlet Common Sense by Thomas Paine.
The cover must include:
 The title of the pamphlet
 The author
 The year it was published
 An original illustration (colored) that best reflects the main idea that it is common sense that the colonies break away from England. Refer to the quotes
for inspiration.
Monarchy or king is a poor form of government.
Laws should rule not a king.
It makes no sense to be governed by a small island 3,000
miles away
Mercantilism does not benefit the colonies.
Colonists could do even better economically without
England.
The colonies connection with England has brought them
into conflict with other countries.
England is not respecting the rights of the colonists.
There have been too many problems for a peaceful
solution to be reached.
Monarchy or king is a poor form of government.
Laws should rule not a king.
It makes no sense to be governed by a small island 3,000
miles away
Mercantilism does not benefit the colonies.
Colonists could do even better economically without
England.
The colonies connection with England has brought them
into conflict with other countries.
England is not respecting the rights of the colonists.
There have been too many problems for a peaceful
solution to be reached.
Monarchy or king is a poor form of government.
Laws should rule not a king.
It makes no sense to be governed by a small island 3,000
miles away
Mercantilism does not benefit the colonies.
Colonists could do even better economically without
England.
The colonies connection with England has brought them
into conflict with other countries.
England is not respecting the rights of the colonists.
There have been too many problems for a peaceful
solution to be reached.