For America250, Common Sense was the 1776 pamphlet that publicly argued for American independence.
Thomas Paine published Common Sense anonymously in Philadelphia on January 10, 1776. Written in direct, accessible English, it attacked hereditary monarchy and argued that the American colonies should break from Great Britain and create a representative republic.
The pamphlet became one of the most influential pieces of revolutionary political writing. Its inexpensive format helped it circulate widely among ordinary readers, not only legislators and wealthy merchants. Paine also linked independence to the practical advantages of trade, defense, and self-government.
Common Sense is often confused with Paine’s later American Crisis writings, which encouraged revolutionary soldiers and supporters during the war. It is also different from The Federalist, a collection of essays published in 1787 and 1788 to support ratification of the Constitution. America250 recalls Common Sense as part of the debate that preceded the Declaration.