- Authored by Thomas Paine
- Published January 10, 1776
- Argued for immediate American independence from Great Britain.
- Emphasized the inherent right of the colonists to self-government due to their right tp "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness".
- Paine criticized the hereditary monarchy and aristocratic system in Britain, contending that they were not responsive to the needs and interests of the common people.
- Addressed to the common reader and featured accessible, persuasive language.
- Sold over 100,000 copies within the first three months of publication, becoming a bestseller in the colonies.
- Widely influential in shaping public opinion and encouraging support for independence.
- Motivated many colonial leaders, including George Washington, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Patrick Henry, to take a stronger stand against British authority and ultimately push for American independence.