Introduction.

In the 100 years which have passed since Thomas Paine addressed this pamphlet to the Anglo-Saxons in British North America, the extension of the territory and population has been of the grandest description. The jurisdiction of the thirteen colonies was then everywhere circumscribed by the Indian lines, and the number of the population—when the United States first declared themselves a confederation—did not exceed three millions. To-day in 37 States and in 10 territories, with an area of 3,603,844 square miles, exclusive of the Indian territory, the American Republic has a population of more than 40,000,000.

When Paine penned the words now re-printed, the doctrine of independence was scarcely comprehended by any: George Washington was a Royalist by education and association, and even the most advanced disciples of Otis shrank from breaking with the Monarchy. Paine's "Common Sense" appealed, however, to the people, and their decision was swift, universal, and permanent. The 4th of July was the grand answer of the American people—an answer they have never had reason to regret.

The very month it was issued Washington regarded the situation as "truly alarming," and wrote that "the first burst of revolutionary zeal had passed away." Paine's pen revived the zeal, and achieved a victory which at that time Washington's sword was insufficient to conquer.

To-day Paine's "Common Sense" has a merit beyond its mere local significance, mighty as this was, and no apology is needed for its re-publication.

Charles Bradlaugh.