Common Sense: Addressed to the Inhabitants of America

Arguably the most important writing that led to the American Revolution, as well as popular revolutions in continental Europe, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense was first published in 1776 and strongly advocated the American colonies’ independence from England. He wrote it from his home in England and for Paine, freedom from monarchies and tyrannies is based upon moral rightness and equality for all people. His pamphlet became a best seller and was publicly read everywhere people gathered to debate the issue of independence. Common Sense is one of the most important books in American history. Later involvement in the French Revolution, including his imprisonment in France, led Paine to write The Rights of Man. Freed through American intervention and living in the United States, Paine’s life took a different turn in his intense antagonism toward George Washington and anyone who disagreed with his views. When he died in 1809, only six mourners came to his funeral, and one obituary stated, "He had lived long, did some good, and much harm." Our particular edition was published in 1791 and includes and appendix which is an address to Quakers – interesting, since the Quakers where he lived in New York refused him burial in their graveyard. 

Condition and treatment: This is an 18th century textblock with a missing binding. The paper is a handmade wove paper that is sewn on three recessed supports. The edges of the textblock are decorated in blue speckles. To facilitate safe handling and storage, the binding will be rebound into a stiff paper binding and stored in an archival cloth covered clamshell enclosure.