Thomas Paine's political pamphlet, Common Sense, was an enormously impactful document of the Revolutionary Era. It stoked the fires of revolution and provided intellectual ammunition to revolutionaries across the colonies. Learn more and engage students with premade activities with Storyboard That!
Thomas Paine's Common Sense - 5 Ws of Common Sense Activity
Storyboard Text
Who Wrote Common Sense?
What was the impact of Common Sense?
To arms, men!
When Was Common Sense Published?
It written by the English-born political philosopher, Thomas Paine. Paine originally published it anonymously for fear of being charged with treason.
Common Sense
The work became a call to arms for many colonists, quickly becoming a best-selling publication. It motivated many to prepare for a conflict that shaped American history.
Common Sense was published in January of 1776. It was released during the American Revolution and became a strong source of motivation for many soldiers in the Continental Army.
Where was Common Sense Read?
The 5 Ws of Common Sense
Why was Common Sense Written?
The Common Sense pamphlet quickly made its way to all areas of colonial society, including the secretive meetings of the Sons of Liberty in taverns throughout Boston.
The main argument revolves around the need for the colonies to break off entirely from the British government. Common Sense stressed that independence was essential.