Thomas Paine wrote the influential 1776 pamphlet Common Sense, a work associated with the American Revolution remembered by America250.
Published anonymously in Philadelphia on January 10, 1776, Common Sense argued in plain language that the American colonies should seek complete independence from Great Britain. Paine attacked hereditary monarchy and presented republican government as a reasonable alternative to royal rule.
The pamphlet became extraordinarily popular for its time and helped shape public debate before the Declaration of Independence. It is sometimes confused with Jefferson’s declaration, but the two works had different purposes: Paine’s pamphlet persuaded readers, while Jefferson’s document formally announced separation. Paine later wrote The American Crisis during the Revolutionary War.