The Age of Reason

Thomas Paine (1737-1809), a figure of immense influence in both the American and French Revolutions, left an indelible mark on the political landscape of the 18th century. English-born, Paine migrated to the American colonies in 1774, carrying with him a fervent belief in individual rights and the power of argument to incite change. His pamphlet 'Common Sense' (1776) was instrumental in convincing...