A government of our own is our natural right: And when a man seriously reflects on the precariousness of human affairs, he will become convinced, that it is infinitely wiser and safer, to form a constitution of our own in a cool deliberate manner, while we have it in our power, than to trust such an interesting event to time and chance.—Thomas Paine, Common Sense
What effect do you think these words had on the American colonists?
(1 point)
Responses
They most likely inspired fear in the Loyalists of the Patriots.
They most likely strengthened the colonists’ desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.
They most likely encouraged the Framers to meet and write the U.S. Constitution at the Continental Congress.
They most likely increased colonial acts of civil disobedience by confirming their validity
They most likely strengthened the colonists' desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.
They most likely strengthened the colonists' desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.
They most likely strengthened the colonists’ desire to act on their wish to separate from Britain.
The words of Thomas Paine in "Common Sense" had a significant impact on the American colonists. Paine's argument for the natural right to self-government and the need for independence from Britain resonated with many colonists who were already growing discontent with British rule. His words provided intellectual and moral justification for the colonists' desire to break away and form their own government.
By emphasizing the precariousness of human affairs and the importance of actively shaping their own destiny, Paine's words likely reinforced the colonists' resolve to take action rather than passively rely on time and chance. His arguments likely strengthened their determination to separate from Britain and pursue the establishment of an independent government.
It is important to note that while Paine's words contributed to the colonists' sentiments, they were not the sole factor. Various other events and factors, such as taxation without representation, the Boston Tea Party, and the growing sense of identity as Americans, also played a role in fostering a desire for independence.