"Common Sense" Explained: US History Review

Summary

In this history lecture, the speaker discusses Thomas Paine's influential pamphlet 'Common Sense' from 1775, which played a pivotal role in persuading colonists to revolt against British rule. The lecture breaks down the pamphlet into seven key arguments: the impracticality of an island nation governing a continent, the cultural diversification of the colonies, the failure of Britain as a 'mother country', the dangers of entanglement in European wars, the challenges posed by geographical distance, the Puritan heritage of seeking refuge from European religious conflicts, and the assertion that colonialism is against the colonies' best interests. The speaker emphasizes the pamphlet's significance in shaping American identity and the push for independence.

Takeaways

• 📚 Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' was a persuasive pamphlet written in 1775 that advocated for American independence from Great Britain.
• 🗣️ The pamphlet is often referred to as the 'book of duh' because it presented common sense arguments for why the colonies should break away from Britain.
• 🌍 Paine argued that it was absurd for an island nation like Britain to govern a vast continent like America, highlighting the geographical and practical challenges.
• 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 The colonial population had diversified, with many different European backgrounds, and Paine suggested they were no longer truly 'British' but had developed a distinct American identity.
• 👩 Paine criticized the idea of Britain as a 'mother country', suggesting that it was more like a bad mother that violated the natural rights of its children.
• 🔫 He warned against the dangers of being entangled in Europe's constant wars, which could drag the colonies into conflicts not of their own making.
• 📡 The geographical distance between America and Britain was a significant issue for Paine, as it made communication and governance difficult.
• 🏛️ Paine drew on the Puritan heritage of the colonies, which sought refuge from religious conflicts in Europe, to argue for continued separation from Britain.
• 🏆 The final argument was about self-governance and the best interests of the colonies, with Paine asserting that Britain would never truly represent or prioritize American needs.
• 💡 'Common Sense' is considered one of the first defining pieces of American literature, helping to shape a sense of American identity and the push for independence.

Q & A

What is the main subject of the lecture?

The main subject of the lecture is the discussion of Thomas Paine's pamphlet 'Common Sense,' written in 1775, which is considered a persuasive piece of literature that played a significant role in the American Revolution.

Why does the lecturer refer to 'Common Sense' as the 'book of duh'?

The lecturer refers to 'Common Sense' as the 'book of duh' because it presents arguments that seem obvious or straightforward to the modern reader, advocating for the American colonies to revolt against British rule.

What is the first argument presented by Thomas Paine in 'Common Sense'?

The first argument is that it is illogical for an island nation like Great Britain to govern a distant continent, which is the American colonies in this context.

How does the lecturer describe the diversity of the American colonies in 1775?

The lecturer describes the American colonies in 1775 as being diverse, with a population that included not only British but also German, French, and other Northern Europeans, indicating a shift away from a purely British identity.

What is the 'mother country' analogy used by Paine?

The 'mother country' analogy refers to the idea that Great Britain, as the colonial power, is like a mother to the colonies. Paine argues that if the mother country does not fulfill its duties to protect and represent the colonies, it is akin to a bad mother.

Why does the lecturer compare Europe to a 'drama table' in the cafeteria?

The lecturer compares Europe to a 'drama table' to illustrate how the continent's constant state of war and political turmoil can negatively impact the American colonies, which are better off avoiding such entanglements.

What is the significance of the 'distance' argument in Paine's pamphlet?

The 'distance' argument highlights the practical challenges of communication and governance due to the vast geographical separation between the American colonies and Great Britain, suggesting that self-governance would be more effective.

How does Paine connect the colonial heritage to the argument for independence?

Paine connects the colonial heritage to the argument for independence by emphasizing the original reasons for the colonies' establishment as a refuge from religious and political conflicts in Europe, suggesting that the colonies should maintain their separation.

What is the seventh and final argument presented by Paine in 'Common Sense'?

The seventh argument is about the best interests of the colonies, asserting that Great Britain will never act in the best interests of the colonies but will always prioritize its own, thus necessitating the creation of a separate country with self-governance.

What is the overall message of 'Common Sense' according to the lecturer?

The overall message of 'Common Sense' is to persuade the American colonies to seek independence from Great Britain, arguing that self-governance and representation are essential for the protection of natural rights and the well-being of the colonies.

Outlines

00:00

📜 Introduction to 'Common Sense' by Thomas Paine

The speaker welcomes the audience to a history lecture, setting the scene in their classroom. They introduce Thomas Paine's pamphlet 'Common Sense,' published in 1775, which they affectionately nickname 'the book of duh.' The pamphlet is described as a persuasive piece of literature that played a significant role in encouraging the American colonists to revolt against Great Britain. The speaker outlines the pamphlet's content into seven sections and likens Paine's work to a modern-day Oprah interview, suggesting its power to awaken and persuade. The first argument presented is the absurdity of a small island nation like Britain trying to govern a vast continent, using the analogy of Jamaica attempting to rule Africa to emphasize the point.

05:02

🌏 The Divergent Identity of the American Colonies

The speaker continues to break down the arguments presented in 'Common Sense.' The second argument addresses the changing identity of the American colonies, which were becoming increasingly diverse with immigrants from various European backgrounds. Paine argues that the colonies were no longer purely British but had developed a distinct American identity, necessitating separation from the British Empire. The third argument criticizes the British as a 'bad mother' to the colonies, suggesting that a mother country should nurture and protect, not exploit and oppress. Paine uses this analogy to build a case for American independence.

🚩 The Folly of Entrusting the Colonies to Britain

In the third paragraph, the speaker discusses Paine's fourth argument, which revolves around the concept of war and the constant entanglement of the colonies in Britain's European conflicts. Paine warns against the dangers of being associated with a 'drama table' like Europe, advocating for the colonies to distance themselves from such turmoil. The fifth argument focuses on the practical challenges posed by the vast distance between the colonies and Britain, highlighting communication difficulties and the slow response to colonial needs. Paine suggests that this distance makes effective governance nearly impossible.

🏛️ The Puritan Heritage and the Argument for Separation

The speaker outlines the sixth argument from 'Common Sense,' which draws on the Puritan heritage of the colonies. Paine argues that the original settlers fled Europe to escape religious persecution and establish a new life free from the turmoil of the Old World. He suggests that the colonies should maintain this separation and formalize their independence to preserve their unique identity and values.

🌟 The Pursuit of Self-Rule and Representation

The final paragraph discussed in the script addresses Paine's seventh and last argument, which is centered on the idea of self-interest and self-governance. Paine contends that Great Britain will never act in the best interests of the colonies but will always prioritize its own needs. He calls for the colonies to rise up, evolve, and create their own separate nation where they can rule themselves, protect their natural rights, and ensure that the people have a voice in their governance.

Keywords

💡Common Sense

Common Sense is a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775, advocating American independence from British rule. It is considered one of the most influential pieces of American literature, as it played a significant role in swaying public opinion towards revolution. In the video, the narrator refers to it as 'the book of duh,' suggesting its straightforward call for independence was a 'no-brainer' for the colonists.

💡Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine was an English-born political activist, philosopher, and writer who is best known for his pamphlets during the American Revolution. In the video, he is credited with writing 'Common Sense,' which served as a persuasive tool to encourage the colonists to revolt against Great Britain.

💡Great Britain

Great Britain, in the context of the video, refers to the colonial power that ruled over the American colonies before the Revolutionary War. The video discusses the idea of breaking free from British rule, which was seen as oppressive and distant, especially in terms of governance and representation.

💡Colonists

Colonists are the settlers who lived in the American colonies during the 18th century. They are central to the video's narrative as they are the ones who were considering revolting against British rule. The video discusses the various reasons Paine provided in 'Common Sense' for why the colonists should seek independence.

💡Revolution

Revolution, in this context, refers to the American Revolution, a historical event where the thirteen American colonies fought against British rule to gain independence. The video discusses how 'Common Sense' acted as a catalyst for this revolution, influencing the colonists to take up arms against the British.

💡Pamphlet

A pamphlet is a small non-periodical publication, usually containing a political or philosophical essay. In the video, 'Common Sense' is referred to as a pamphlet, highlighting its role as a piece of persuasive literature that was widely distributed and read by the colonists.

💡Representation

Representation in the video refers to the idea that the colonists were not fairly represented in the British government. Paine argued in 'Common Sense' that the colonists should have their own government to represent their interests, which was a key argument for independence.

💡Natural Rights

Natural rights are rights that are believed to be inherent to all individuals by virtue of their humanity, such as the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The video discusses how Paine argued that the British government was violating these natural rights of the colonists, justifying the need for independence.

💡Mother Country

The term 'mother country' is used in the video to describe the relationship between the colonies and Great Britain. Paine questioned the metaphor, arguing that if the 'mother' (Great Britain) was not acting in the best interests of the 'children' (the colonies), then it was time for the colonies to become independent.

💡Puritan Heritage

Puritan Heritage refers to the religious and cultural background of many of the early English settlers in America, who sought to escape religious persecution in England. The video mentions this as one of the reasons Paine gave for the colonies to separate from Britain, as their original purpose was to establish a society distinct from the one they left behind.

💡Colonialism

Colonialism is the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. In the video, Paine's argument against colonialism is discussed, emphasizing the need for the colonies to break free from British control to pursue their own interests and self-governance.

Highlights

Introduction to Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' pamphlet and its significance in American history.

The pamphlet is referred to as the 'book of duh', highlighting its persuasive nature.

Common Sense is seen as a catalyst for the American Revolution against Great Britain.

The pamphlet is divided into seven key arguments for American independence.

Argument one: The impracticality of an island nation (Great Britain) ruling a continent.

Argument two: The cultural and ethnic diversification of the colonies, distinct from Britain.

Argument three: The failure of Great Britain as a 'mother country' to protect the colonies' rights.

Argument four: The colonies' entanglement in Europe's constant wars.

Argument five: The challenges of distance and communication with a far-off ruler.

Argument six: The Puritan heritage and the original intent of the colonies as a refuge from Europe.

Argument seven: The colonies being treated as a colony, not having their best interests at heart.

The call for the colonies to rise up, revolt, and create their own separate country.

The importance of representation, protecting natural rights, and consent of the governed.

The pamphlet's role in defining American identity and literature.

The use of analogies, such as Tina Turner and Ike Turner, to explain the relationship between the colonies and Great Britain.

The idea of the colonies not wanting to be part of the 'drama table' that is Europe.

Transcripts

hey guys welcome to another hippies

history lecture this time from my

awesome classroom that I love so much

what I'm gonna do for you in the next

few minutes guys is have a little chat

with you about a really awesome book a

pamphlet written in 1775 by Thomas Paine

and it's called common sense I like

calling it the book of duh so what this

is guys is basically seen as a piece of

literature in American history that's

really going to serve as a piece of

persuasion as a catalyst to launch

people into wanting to revolt against

the country Great Britain the colonial

power and that's a pretty pretty

powerful book if it's gonna convince you

to pick up a gun and start shooting at

the Redcoats

so let's break this bad boy up into

seven big sections but I like starting

off by kind of stating that I call it

the book of duh and other analogies I've

talked about Tina Turner and Ike Turner

and this is really the moment today's

world where Tina would go on Oprah and

she kind of have that girl you need to

leave but of course we're talking about

a book and Oprah is Thomas Paine but

nevertheless it's gonna have the same

type of effect a really kind of waking

America up so it's a really great book

to get to know and especially if you're

writing an essay talking about why the

colonists are gonna repel against Great

Britain so seven basic basic arguments

will just kind of break them up right

now number one number one is Great

Britain yo-you an island should do an

island running a continent I mean that's

ridiculous

you know the idea of let's say I don't

know Jamaica running Africa really makes

no sense so the idea that an island

nation in Europe is going to be able to

successfully kind of you know drive

policy for a continent that's you know

thousands of miles away it's just

ludicrous

so argument number one is yo you're an

island argument number two is that we're

particularly not British anymore you

know the colonial power certainly is

Great Britain and that is probably more

of kind of a reason because of history

and power and economics but in 1775 yo

we mad diverse you know there's German

and there's a French and there's all

types of Europeans especially Northern

Europeans at this time the old

immigration that is pain in this kind of

sermon is saying you know we're not

British anymore we've diversified so

it's time to kind of move on and not be

part of the British Empire because we're

distinctly different we're American and

that's what makes this book so important

it's really one of the first kind of

American defining pieces of literature

giving us this kind of sense of identity

so argument number two we're really not

British anymore argument number three yo

mama really you know you've heard the

term mother country right so using that

analogy in this sermon that Payne is

launching he's like what kind of mother

does what this mother does you know yeah

maybe she's my mother but she's a bad

mother and were grown up now you know

certainly you you owe something to your

mother if she raises you and loves you

but if she raises you and violates your

natural rights and doesn't give you

representation and you know taxes you as

punishment and when you're 18 all of

your life go live your life

so argument number three is your momma

right that your mother if it's a mother

country isn't doing its motherly duties

number four is bang bang and this is the

concept of European war Great Britain's

in a war like every Monday so if you're

the colonists and you're kind of

strapping your hook to this boat that's

going to war all the time we're going to

constantly entangled in European

alliance ISM you know the French and

Indian War is an example of that of kind

of Europe scrap spilling over in the

continent of the North American

continent you know it's not cool so

certainly I give the analogy that if you

go to the cafeteria table you don't want

to sit at the drama table and certainly

Europe is the drama table and Payne says

you know let's sit over there

argument number five is basically the

idea of distance Great Britain is

literally thousand miles away and of

course there's no internet or phones or

even the post office so therefore

communication is a problem and having

them deal with us that far away and

having that time gap there's going to be

certainly problems just pragmatic

problems about dealing

issues so distance is a big argument

that pain lays out its the bell this

time for school is time for learning

argument number six is the idea of kind

of our Puritan heritage or at least the

idea that one of the founding principles

of the colonies was kind of serving as a

refuge from Europe and certainly in a

religious refuge from kind of the

Catholic Church in the Church of England

we're coming over here to separate

ourselves from all that drama so going

back to kind of historical context of

you know the Puritan foundational stuff

pain makes that argument of that that

should kind of lead us to the idea that

we should we should still be separate or

we should be separated officially and

finally the last argument of the seventh

argument is the idea of best interest

and this really goes to colonialism we

are you know Great Britain's Punk and

Paine says basically that they're never

gonna have our best interests they're

always going to treat us like a punk

because they're always going to be

interested and you know one nin before

they're going to be interested in Boston

so therefore it is that much more

important that we rise up and we're

evolved and we create our own separate

country so we can rule ourselves and we

can have our own representation protect

our own natural rights and give our

people consent of the governed so we can

you know rule the day so there you go

guys Common Sense 1775 Thomas Paine

seven arguments we'll see you next time

you should click links below there in

the description because your brain is

going to grow ten times its size thanks

for watching where Tessa goes

while it diffuses out we'll see later a

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