Common Sense

by Thomas Paine

"Common Sense" by Thomas Paine is a pamphlet published in 1776 advocating independence from Great Britain for the Thirteen Colonies. Written in clear, persuasive prose, Paine presents moral and political arguments to inspire common people to fight for egalitarian government. Published anonymously at the American Revolution's beginning, it became an immediate sensation, widely read and debated. The pamphlet made independence a serious intellectual proposition for the first time, connecting it with Protestant beliefs and American identity. It became the best-selling American title of all time.