Thomas Paine
- Born:
- February 9, 1737, Thetford, Norfolk, England
- Died:
- June 8, 1809, New York City, New York, United States
- Nationality:
- British (until 1776), American
- Profession(s):
- Political Philosopher, Political Activist, Revolutionary, Writer, Intellectual
Early Life and Education
- Born to a Quaker father and Anglican mother.
- Received limited formal education, attending Thetford Grammar School until age 13.
- Apprenticed to his father as a staymaker, later worked in various occupations including as an excise officer.
Career and Major Achievements
- Emigrated to British America in 1774 on the advice of Benjamin Franklin.
- Became a leading voice for American independence.
- Served as secretary to the Committee on Foreign Affairs during the American Revolution.
- Advocated for the abolition of slavery and equal rights.
Notable Works
- Common Sense (1776): A highly influential pamphlet advocating for American independence from Great Britain.
- The American Crisis (1776-1783): A series of pamphlets supporting the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
- Rights of Man (1791): A defense of the French Revolution and a treatise on human rights.
- The Age of Reason (1794): A deistic critique of organized religion.
- Agrarian Justice (1797): A proposal for a system of guaranteed minimum income.
Legacy and Impact
As this 'thomas paine biography summary' demonstrates, Thomas Paine's writings and activism played a crucial role in inspiring both the American and French Revolutions. His ideas on natural rights, republicanism, and social justice continue to resonate in contemporary political thought, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in the history of democracy.