The American Crisis by Thomas Paine

Name: The American Crisis
Author: Thomas Paine

The American Crisis is a collection of essays written by Thomas Paine during the American Revolutionary War. The essays were first published in 1776 and were intended to inspire the American colonists to fight for independence from Britain. The essays are divided into four parts, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the war. In the first part, Paine argues that the American colonies have a right to independence and that the British government has violated their rights. He also argues that the American people have the power to overthrow the British government and establish a new government of their own. In the second part, Paine discusses the importance of unity among the colonies and the need for a strong central government. He also encourages the colonists to fight for their freedom and to never give up. In the third part, Paine discusses the importance of religion and morality in the struggle for independence. He argues that the American people must remain true to their religious beliefs and moral values in order to succeed. In the fourth part, Paine discusses the importance of perseverance and courage in the face of adversity. He argues that the American people must remain steadfast in their commitment to freedom and never give up. The American Crisis is an important work of literature that helped to inspire the American people to fight for their independence. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of courage, perseverance, and faith in the face of adversity.

By Thomas Paine · First published 1776 · Genre: Political Essay, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Writing · 14 chapters · 76,784 words

First lines

THESE are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated. Britain, with an army to enforce her tyranny, has declared that she has a right (not only to TAX) but "to BIND us in ALL CASES WHATSOEVER," and if being bound in that manner, is not slavery, then is there not such a thing as slavery upon earth. Even the expression is impious; for so unlimited a power can belong only to God.

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The American Crisis is listed on Textopian as an article by Thomas Paine, dated 1776 CE.

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Work type: Article
Author: Thomas Paine
Date: 1776 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Essay, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Writing, Political Satire
Length: 76,784 words
Structure: 14 chapters, 2,335 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Political Essay — The American Crisis is a series of essays written by Thomas Paine during the American Revolution. The essays discuss the political and social issues of the time, and Paine's views on the American Revolution and the formation of the United States.
Historical Fiction — The American Crisis is set during the American Revolution and provides a historical account of the events of the time. It also includes fictional elements, such as Paine's personal reflections on the events and his views on the Revolution.
Philosophical Writing — The American Crisis contains philosophical reflections on the events of the time, as well as Paine's views on the Revolution and the formation of the United States. It also includes philosophical musings on the nature of freedom and democracy.
Political Satire — The American Crisis contains satirical elements, such as Paine's criticism of the British government and his views on the Revolution. It also includes humorous anecdotes and witty observations on the events of the time.