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Published anonymously in 1776, Paine’s Common Sense became an immediate bestseller, with 56 editions printed in that year alone. Using clear, accessible language Paine challenges the authority of the British government, arguing in favor of independence. Paine also reflects on the purpose of government, stating that it should allow all people “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Paine’s...

But where, says some, is the King of America? I’ll tell you. Friend, he reigns above, and doth not make havoc of mankind like the Royal Brute of Britain. Yet that we may not appear to be defective even in earthly honors, let a day be solemnly set apart for proclaiming the charter; let it be brought forth placed on the divine law, the word of God; let a crown be placed thereon, by which the world may know, that so far we approve of monarchy, that in America THE LAW IS KING. For as in absolute governments