Thomas Paine

Definition

Thomas Paine was an English-born American political activist, philosopher, and author. He is best known for his pamphlet "Common Sense," which advocated for American independence from Britain.

Related terms

American Revolution: The war fought by the Thirteen American colonies to win independence from Great Britain. It took place from 1775 to 1783.

Pamphleteering: The writing, production, and distribution of short books or papers on important topics - often used in times of political unrest or revolution.

Republicanism: A political ideology centered on citizenship in a state organized as a republic under which the people hold popular sovereignty.