Notes

In the pamphlet Common Sense by Thomas Paine, the author describes the need for the colonists to take action against the British. Readers can easily recognize what side Paine supports, the colonists. One main reason Paine is arguing that the colonists should separate from Britain is because of the distance between America and England. He states in his pamphlet, "...and so very ignorant of us. To be always running three or four thousand miles with a tale or petition, waiting four or five months for an answer..." This statement shows that Thomas Paine believes that it makes no sense how the people must travel long distance and wait months to solve their problems because they are controlled from far. Continuing with that argument, Paine states, "England to Europe- America to itself." Thomas Paine was strong with his belief that America belongs to itself and no other country. He believed that America was to stand on its own without being controlled by a place far away. Thomas Paine also states in Common Sense, "Ye dare oppose not only the tyranny, but the tyrant, stand forth!" I believe he is trying to convey that not only should the colonies revolt and speak out against the empire ruling over them, but the king who gives the orders as well to put halt to their troubles.