Lecture Notes: Understanding the Five W's of "Common Sense"

Introduction

• Topic: "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine
• Purpose of Lecture: Understanding the five W's (Who, What, When, Where, Why) of the pamphlet "Common Sense"

Who

• Author: Thomas Paine
  • Originally from England
  • Arrived in America two years prior to writing "Common Sense"
  • Considered a patriot for advocating against England

What

• "Common Sense": A pamphlet advocating for American independence from Britain
  • Emphasized as a pamphlet, not a book
  • Written in a straightforward manner for common people

When

• Publication Date: January 1776
  • Preceded the Declaration of Independence
  • Influenced the Continental Congress

Where

• Setting: Thirteen Colonies in America

Why

• Purpose: To convince Americans to support the Patriot cause
  • Aimed at ordinary people
  • Encouraged loyalists to reconsider and potentially join the independence movement

Conclusion

• Impact: "Common Sense" played a significant role in rallying public support for American independence

• Final Note: Understanding "Common Sense" is crucial in grasping the motivations and sentiments leading up to America's decision to declare independence.