Thomas Paine wrote the 1776 pamphlet Common Sense, a major argument for American independence. Published anonymously in Philadelphia on January 10, 1776, it addressed ordinary colonists rather than only political leaders.
Paine argued that hereditary monarchy and continued reconciliation with Britain were unreasonable. He promoted independence and representative government in direct, forceful language that could be read aloud in homes, taverns, and meeting places. The pamphlet helped make independence a widely discussed public cause before the Declaration of Independence was adopted.
Common Sense was 47 pages long and became an immediate publishing sensation. Paine initially used the pseudonym “An Englishman,” although his authorship soon became known. Robert Bell published the first edition, while later editions included additional material by Paine.
A common mix-up is confusing Common Sense with Paine’s later American Crisis essays. The pamphlet made the case for independence; the essays, beginning in December 1776, encouraged revolutionary soldiers and supporters during the war.