Political Activist, Philosopher, Revolutionary
Born: January 29, 1737, in Thetford, Norfolk, England
Died: June 8, 1809, in New York City, United States
Nationality: English-American
Education: Limited formal education; largely self-taught.
Career Highlights:
1774: Emigrated to the American colonies, encouraged by Benjamin Franklin.
1776: Published Common Sense, a pivotal pamphlet advocating for American independence from Britain. It became a bestseller and galvanized public support for the Revolution.
1776–1783: Served as a soldier and aide-de-camp during the American Revolutionary War. Wrote The American Crisis series, which boosted morale among Continental troops, famously opening with, "These are the times that try men's souls."
1791–1792: Published Rights of Man, a defense of the French Revolution and a critique of hereditary rule, which made him a key figure in the Enlightenment.
1794–1796: Wrote The Age of Reason, a critique of organized religion and advocacy for deism, which sparked controversy and alienated some supporters.
1802: Returned to the United States after years in Europe, where he had been involved in revolutionary activities and imprisoned during the French Revolution.
Key Contributions:
A leading intellectual force behind the American and French Revolutions.
Advocated for republicanism, human rights, and rational thought.
His writings influenced the development of democratic ideals and inspired revolutionaries worldwide.
Legacy:
Remembered as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, though his radical views later marginalized him.
His works remain foundational texts in political philosophy and the history of revolutionary movements.
Personal Life:
Married twice (Mary Lambert, Elizabeth Ollive); both marriages ended tragically or in separation.
Died in relative obscurity and poverty, but his ideas gained renewed prominence in later years.
Quotable:
"The world is my country, all mankind are my brethren, and to do good is my religion."
Thomas Paine's life and works continue to inspire debates on democracy, human rights, and the role of government.
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【更新中字】重启世界：托马斯潘恩的一生（片段）To Begin the World Over Again: the Life of Thomas Paine_哔哩哔哩_bilibili
Common Sense by Thomas Paine_哔哩哔哩_bilibili
