America's Documents Of Freedom 1775-1786 - Common Sense 1776

During the American Revolution, not all colonists supported independence from England. Loyalists, who had various reasons for their allegiance, opposed the revolution. However, figures like Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine played crucial roles in shifting public opinion towards independence. Henry's speeches and Paine's pamphlet 'Common Sense' were instrumental in rallying support for the revolutionary cause. 'Common Sense' sold widely, influencing many to favor independence, leading to the Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Paine's writings were pivotal, as noted by John Adams, in the success of the revolution.

What was the significance of the phrase 'give me liberty or give me death' in the context of the American Revolution?

In what ways did Thomas Paine challenge the authority of the British Crown?