Fact Versus Reason

In January 1776, Paine composed a fifty-page pamphlet that presented his argument for independence. He began his argument by saying, "Freedom has been hunted around the globe. Asia and Africa have long expelled her. Europe regards her like a stranger; and England has given her warning to depart. O, receive the fugitive and prepare in time an asylum for mankind."

A poor emigrant from England, Paine became the voice of the multitudes, eloquently expressing the sentiments of revolution and rebellion felt all around the colonies. Paine's persuasive success rested upon his use of the rhetorical triangle, the effective interactions of speaker, audience, and purpose.