Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Of the many arguments that Thomas Paine gives for America to separate from the British, which is the most convincing to you? Try to be as specific as possible.
- Who are some of the "enemies from within" that Thomas Paine singles out for criticism in this text? Is his criticism justified?
- Are there any places in this book where you think Thomas Paine is being unfair? Why or why not?
- What are some of the main reasons why some Americans want to reconcile with the British instead of fighting? How does Paine refute them?
- What was going on with the American Revolution when this pamphlet was published in 1776? How do you think it affected what Paine wrote?
- What are the chief values or concepts that Paine wants to defend by overthrowing British rule in America?
- Which group does Paine criticize in the Appendix to his pamphlet and what advice does he give them moving forward? It he fair to this group?
- Why is Thomas Paine so certain that the thirteen U.S. colonies will unite once they've thrown Britain out of their land? Use specific evidence to support your view.