Thomas Paine

Common Sense Thomas Paine Hourglass edition

This is an abridged and annotated edition of Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" with definitions, diagrams and historical context, plus an annotated and formatted copy of The Declaration of Independence. Enjoy and easily follow Thomas Paine's most influential and inspiring words and references from nearly 250 years ago, prepared in an easy-to-read format by Hourglass Editions.

How is it different than the original 1776 text?We condensed the original text to nearly half the length by including the key selections and points of the original text, while leaving out repeated points, portions of run-on sentences, and condensing lengthy examples. We include definitions of uncommon words and phrases, plus explanations of people, places or events referenced by Thomas Paine. We make a nearly-250-year old booklet quick to read and easy to inspire the modern student and reader without removing the original author's, tone, words or message. This includes Thomas Paine's appendix response to religious pacifists and King George III's speech to Parliament.

Take yourself back to 1775 - Loyalists want to make amends and return to the status quo. Patriots want independence and to start something new. But the problematic group is the remaining majority... They are uncommitted and indecisive on what stance to take.

We were not a united nation.

But then on January 10, 1776, a pamphlet is published anonymously in Philadelphia.

It reads like a sermon to Christians, and an economic and government plan to the colonists, and a rallying call to independence and revolution for the entire continent. It blasts the concept of monarchy and Kings. It exposes the false hopes of reconciliation with England. And it openly lays out the reasons and strength for a revolution. It's a moral decision just as much as an economic or political one. Its "Common Sense."

And it spreads like wildfire.