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History: A discussion of Thomas Paine’s ‘Common Sense’ article

Qn.1

All men are equal

Paine begins his argument by asserting the natural order of things that God ordained in men; that is, all men are equal. He, therefore, questions the way the British Empire could believe themselves to be extraordinary beings to the extent of subjecting the Americans to slavery by making all their important life decisions. Paine further notes that men and women are distinguished by nature, the good, and evil by faith. However, he wonders what kind of distinction assigns some human beings to be the rulers, in other words, the kings while the rest remain the subjects. According to Paine, it is unnatural and unfair for some human beings to believe themselves to be of more importance than the others. In his argument, Paine holds that hereditary monarchy through which the British exercise its political power obstructs the natural justice since no man should have preferential treatment over others. Paine further argues that Americas was focused on a higher calling. The main aim of such a calling was liberating the entire human race from slavery and affliction of self-imposed ‘earthly kings’.

Americas Independence does her better than harm

Paine suggests that America could be better without their colonial masters. He claims that England did not colonize America to protect it nor to make it flourish but to safeguard its interests. Paine criticizes those opposed to America’s independence by giving an example that savages cannot declare war on their families. He also believes that commerce in America can maintain peaceful relationships with the Europe. Moreover, scarcity of precious stones such as gold in America would keep invaders away hence no need for British protection.

Qn.2

Paine’s article was powerful in shaping the public opinion in favor of