Common Sense

# Common Sense

Who / What

**Common Sense** is a 1776 pamphlet written by Thomas Paine, advocating for independence from Great Britain among the Thirteen Colonies. The work was designed to rally support among ordinary colonists for an egalitarian government and the fight against British rule.

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Background & History

Written between 1775–1776, *Common Sense* emerged as a pivotal document during the early stages of the American Revolution. Published anonymously on January 10, 1776, it was distributed widely across the colonies, becoming one of the most influential political pamphlets in history. Paine’s clear, persuasive prose simplified complex ideas about self-governance and colonial rights, making them accessible to a broad audience.

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Why Notable

*Common Sense* played a crucial role in shifting public opinion toward independence by presenting moral and practical arguments for breaking away from British rule. Its immediate success—spreading rapidly across the colonies—helped galvanize support for revolutionary causes. The pamphlet’s influence extended beyond its time, inspiring later movements advocating for democracy and self-determination.

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In the News

While no contemporary news coverage exists in this dataset, *Common Sense* remains a foundational text in American history, studied as a key catalyst for the Declaration of Independence. Its themes of republicanism and common man’s rights continue to resonate in discussions about political equality and democratic ideals.

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Key Facts

**Type:** Pamphlet (written work)

**Also known as:** *A Short State of Reason* (alternative title by Paine, unrelated to this publication)

**Founded / Born:** Thomas Paine (1737–1809) was the author; publication year: 1776

**Key dates:**

January 10, 1776 – First published anonymously in Boston.

Published widely across the Thirteen Colonies within weeks.

**Geography:** Written and distributed primarily in the **Thirteen Colonies** (modern-day United States).

**Affiliation:** Associated with the **American Revolutionary Movement**; authored by Thomas Paine, a political activist and pamphleteer.

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Links

[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Sense)

Sources

• 🔗 Wikipedia

Common Sense is a 47-page pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–1776 advocating independence from Great Britain to people in the Thirteen Colonies. Writing in clear and persuasive prose, Paine collected moral and political arguments to encourage common people in the Colonies to fight for egalitarian government. It was published anonymously on January 10, 1776, at the beginning of the American Revolution and became an immediate sensation.