250th Anniversary of the Publication of "Common Sense"

On January 10, 1776, Thomas Paine published “Common Sense”, a 76-page pamphlet that is credited with swaying the American public to the cause of independence

Paine's story is a fascinating one, and you can learn more about him with Library resources, and these upcoming events:

• February 12 at 7pm: A virtual talk by author Jack Kelly on his new book Tom Paine’s War: The Words That Rallied the Nation and a Founder for Our Time.
• February 22 at 2pm: A screening of the acclaimed film To Begin the World Over Again, which brings Paine to life, followed by with a discussion led by a history professor.

Why learn about Paine? Some background:

• In 1776 Paine (born ‘Pain’) was a 37 year-old immigrant who had left England after several failed ventures (including corset maker, privateer and tax official).
• With an ‘e’ newly added to his name, he found work as a magazine editor in Philadelphia and began publishing essays that expressed his values in remarkably straightforward and passionate terms.
• “Common Sense,” released in a volatile atmosphere, called not just for the rejection of the English king, but all kings: "all men being originally equals." His words seemed to galvanize the colonists' conflicted feelings, and it became a 'viral' sensation.
• No "keyboard" warrior, Paine pledged the royalties towards buying mittens for the undersupplied Continental Army, and joined a militia himself.
• He went on to issue further inspirational works. “The American Crisis” declared that “these are the times that try mens souls,” and was read to the Continental Army to raise morale before the risky December attack on the Hessians at Trenton.

Paine's life only became more dramatic in the years following the Revolution: the British sought to hang him, the French imprisoned him, and he died alone and impoverished. His very bones were lost and he has no final resting place.

As we begin the anniversary year of the American Revolution, marking the the publication of "Common Sense" on January 10, 1776 is a great way to start the celebration. Watch for more upcoming events sponsored by the Library and Scotch Plains Township.