Thomas Paine V2 Bobblehead

Thomas Paine was an influential author, political pamphleteer, and Founding Father of the United States, best known for shaping public support for American independence. Born in England in 1737, Paine worked various jobs before emigrating to America in 1774 with encouragement from Benjamin Franklin.

In Philadelphia, Paine gained prominence as a writer and editor before publishing Common Sense in 1776. Written in clear, persuasive language, the pamphlet argued against monarchy and for representative government, dramatically increasing colonial support for independence.

During the Revolutionary War, Paine inspired soldiers and citizens through The American Crisis, famously opening with, “These are the times that try men’s souls.”

Paine later supported the French Revolution and authored Rights of Man (1791), defending democratic ideals. His revolutionary views led to imprisonment in France, though he was ultimately released with help from U.S. diplomat James Monroe.