The Writings of Thomas Paine — Volume 2 (1779-1792): The Rights of Man

by Thomas Paine

"The Rights of Man" by Thomas Paine is a political work published in two parts in 1791 and 1792. Written in defense of the French Revolution against Edmund Burke's conservative attack, it argues that governments exist solely to protect natural human rights and that revolution is justified when they fail this purpose. Paine challenges hereditary monarchy and aristocracy, proposing radical reforms including a written constitution, elimination of noble titles, progressive taxation, and subsidized education for the poor. The book sold an estimated one million copies and inspired reformers across Britain.