View a FREE sample

Introduction and Appendix

• Thomas Paine introduces the main reasons for writing Common Sense along with why he remains anonymous at this point.
• After detailing the scenario for an ideal society, Paine discusses the need for elected officials.
• Paine criticizes the monarchy for its hypocritical approach to appointing leaders through heredity.
• The inability of the British to effectively govern America from a distance is summarized by Paine.
• The benefits of America's Independence are explained and Paine expresses his relentless support for the American Revolution.

The Crisis

• Paine begins The Crisis by stating that the war will not be easily won, but the victory will be well worth the effort.
• George Washington's character and mind are admired as the American soldiers overcome hardships in crossing the Delaware.
• Paine talks about the use of religion in politics and the negative results of it.
• A recount of Howe's surrender to American troops...

(read more Chapter Abstracts)

This section contains 563 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample