Fact Versus Reason

Persuasive writers and speakers produce their most effective work during society’s times of strife and struggle.  Words leave an indelible imprint upon the actions and decisions of a country. As the author of Common Sense and The American Crisis, Thomas Paine demonstrated a forceful style that made him among the most controversial (and effective) of the revolutionary era's writers.

In this topic, you will use what you have learned about emotional and logical appeals, the science of argumentation, and the persuasive essays of colonial America to analyze two of Thomas Paine's most famous and influential essays.

Essential Question

• Which appeals did Thomas Paine use to rally Americans to rebellion?