Ancient Knowledge ClubCommon SenseThomas Paine

Guided edition

Common Sense

by Thomas Paine

A concise, forceful case for political change, written for people outside the usual centres of power.

Written 1776 12 guided readings Named English edition Read at your own pace

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The book stays at the centre.

Read the source first. Use the guide when the language slows you down.

Original text first

Read the author's own words in a calm, focused layout.

Guidance in plain English

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Key takeaways for every chapter

Finish each chapter with the ideas worth carrying forward.

Inside this edition

Read it in the order it was written.

Each reading keeps the source, context, explanation and takeaways together.

INTRODUCTIONOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

OF THE ORIGIN AND DESIGN OF GOVERNMENT IN GENERAL,Original source, plain English guide and key takeaways

OF MONARCHY AND HEREDITARY SUCCESSION

OF MONARCHY AND HEREDITARY SUCCESSION. Monarchy lacks natural or sacred titleOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

OF MONARCHY AND HEREDITARY SUCCESSION. Succession multiplies royal harmOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

THOUGHTS ON THE PRESENT STATE OF AMERICAN AFFAIRS

THOUGHTS ON THE PRESENT STATE OF AMERICAN AFFAIRS. Argument over, arms beginOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

THOUGHTS ON THE PRESENT STATE OF AMERICAN AFFAIRS. Nature has ended reconciliationOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

THOUGHTS ON THE PRESENT STATE OF AMERICAN AFFAIRS. From fear to federal designOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

OF THE PRESENT ABILITY OF AMERICA,

OF THE PRESENT ABILITY OF AMERICA,. America is ready nowOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

OF THE PRESENT ABILITY OF AMERICA,. Unequal power and prompt unionOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

APPENDIX

APPENDIX. The Speech as proof of tyrannyOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

APPENDIX. Immediate unity for independenceOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

APPENDIX. Rejecting Quaker testimonyOriginal source, plain English guide and key takeaways

Source and edition are always named.

Thomas Paine, 1776. The Ancient Knowledge Club guide is original and kept separate from the source text.