André Ifill
Mr. Miserendino
435-01
5 December 2014
Common Sense
In Common Sense, a pamphlet by Thomas Paine, he’s trying to convince his audience that the colonies independence from Britain is better for them. One of his arguments is that the colonies’ independence is better for their relationship with the other European countries economically. Another argument he makes is that the British always have and always will oppress the colonies. One last argument he makes of his is that the independence of the colonies is bound to happen eventually. A better economic relationship with Europe, inevitable British oppression of the colonies, and the colonies inevitable independence are three ways Thomas Paine attempts to convince his audience that
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One thing he says is whenever a war breaks out between England and any foreign power, the trade of America goes to ruin because of her connection with Britain” (pg), to prove his point that Britain hurts America’s potential economic prosperity. America is not directly involved in the conflict, but because America is a British colony, their trade is affected negatively. Thomas Paine feels as if America will have tremendous economic opportunities by disengaging with Britain and building alliances with other European countries. When discussing their connection with Britain and their potential with the rest of Europe he states “I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation to show a single advantage this continent can reap by being connected with Great Britain. I repeat the challenge; not a single advantage is derived. Our corn will fetch its pride in any market in Europe, and our imported goods must be paid for buy them were we will” (pg), displaying his confidence that America does not need only Britain to buy their goods, for he is certain it will find a market everywhere else in Europe. Paine thinks and tries to convince his audience that the only way to achieve this disengagement with Britain, and subsequently create alliances with the rest of Europe is to gain the respect of the other European nations which he thinks can only happen by becoming an independent