THOMAS PAINE
During the birth of America, Thomas Paine (1737–1809) was an author, pamphleteer, inventor, intellectual, and revolutionary. He wrote the famous, widely read pamphlet “Common Sense,” which was instrumental in advocating the colonies’ independence from Britain. He also authored “The American Crisis,” excerpted below, in support of the American Revolution. He is considered one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and his work was so influential during the Revolution that John Adams once remarked, “Without the pen of the author of ‘Common Sense,’ the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain.” Despite being an agnostic, Paine frequently referenced God and Providence in his works and believed that reflection and contemplation were a necessity in any man’s life.
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These are the times that try men’s souls.
The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.
Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.
What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value . . .
Quitting this class of men, I turn with the warm ardor of a friend to those who have nobly stood, and are yet determined to stand the matter out: I call not upon a few, but upon all: not on this state or that state, but on every state: up and help us; lay your shoulders to the wheel; better have too much force than too little, when so great an object is at stake.
Let it be told to the future world, that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive, that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet and to repulse it.
Say not that thousands are gone, turn out your tens of thousands; throw not the burden of the day upon Providence, but “show your faith by your works,” that God may bless you. It matters not where you live, or what rank of life you hold, the evil or the blessing will reach you all. The far and the near, the home counties and the back, the rich and the poor, will suffer or rejoice alike. The heart that feels not now is dead; the blood of his children will curse his cowardice, who shrinks back at a time when a little might have saved the whole, and made them happy. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. .Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.