Common Sense (version 2)

Thomas Paine is often referred to as The Father of the American Revolution, and his groundbreaking pamphlet, Common Sense, published anonymously on January 10, 1776, played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. Initially signed Written by an Englishman, this influential document quickly gained traction, with an estimated 100,000 copies sold in just three months, and around 500,000 total—including pirated editions—circulating throughout the American colonies. At a time when the population was only two million free inhabitants, this made Common Sense the best-selling book of its era. Originally titled Plain Truth, the name was changed at the suggestion of Paines friend and fellow independence advocate Benjamin Rush. Released after the Revolution had begun, the pamphlet was widely shared and often read aloud in taverns, significantly spreading the ideas of republicanism and fueling the desire for separation from Britain, as well as encouraging enlistment in the Continental Army. Paines compelling arguments for independence called for a definitive break from the past, urging readers to focus on a brighter future and offering hope to those alarmed by the looming threat of tyranny.