The pen is mightier than the sword, and this pen helped bring about the American Revolution. Thomas Paine is one of history’s most renowned thinkers and was indispensible to both the American and French revolutions. The three works included, Common Sense, The Rights of Man, and The Age of Reason, are among his most famous publications. Paine is probably best known for his hugely popular pamphlet, Common Sense, which swayed public opinion in favor of American independence from England. The Rights of Man and The Age of Reason further advocated for universal human rights, a republican instead of monarchical government, and truth and reason in politics. The works of this moral visionary, whose ideas are as relevant today as ever, are now available as part of the Word Cloud Classics series, providing a stylish and affordable addition to any library.

Known as the Father of the American Revolution, English-American author Thomas Paine became famous for two pamphlets that inspired the colonists to fight for their independence. Common Sense, published in 1776, fostered the idea that the colonists could separate from the tyrannical rule of the British monarchy, and The American Crisis, published that same year, encouraged soldiers to fight against the British Army. Paine's later writings included The Rights of Man (1791), a series of articles defending the French Revolution and asserting that people should rise up if governments failed to protect their natural rights. His final text, The Age of Reason (1794–1796), challenged institutionalized religion and critiqued Christian theology, advocating instead for reason and scientific inquiry. This collection features unabridged editions of all four of the American revolutionary's main pamphlets and writings.

This volume takes a fresh look at Common Sense, Thomas Paine's provocative pamphlet that roused the American colonists toward outright revolt against Britain. With ample use of primary sources, this book provides historical context and a feeling for the times. It explores why this document was pivotal in 1776 and how it still informs the United States' idea of itself and its government. Illustrations and quotations, plus interesting little-known facts, make this a fascinating book for readers grades 6 to 8.