Question

What do you think is Paine’s purpose in this excerpt from Common Sense? Cite evidence from the excerpt to support your claim.

Answer 1

Paine's purpose is to convince Americans to seek freedom from British rule as soon as possible. He wants people to start fighting for America's independence before it’s too late. He reminds them, "When William the Conqueror subdued England he gave them law at the point of the sword." Paine doesn’t want America to have the same fate that England suffered under the rule of William the Conqueror.

Answer 2

Paine's purpose in this excerpt from "Common Sense" is to convince American citizens to seek independence from Britain and to form their own Government.

He explains that, unless they create a strong and democratic Government set in America, they will always be in danger of being invaded and forced to serve another country.