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Published in 1776.
Context: America was still divided; many Americans had loyalties to the British crown despite viewing themselves as Americans.

Became the most influential pamphlet in American history, with thousands distributed throughout the colonies.
Laid the foundation for democracy and republicanism as understood today.

Common misconception: the term "republicanism" often linked with the Republican Party.
- Clarification: The Republican Party was founded after Abraham Lincoln.
Definition: Republicanism emphasizes the role of the people in governance.
- Power derives from the people, meaning that everyone has a voice and representation in the government.

Concept of Virtue:
- Paine emphasizes the need for leaders to have virtue.
- Virtue defined: Being morally good or correct. Leaders must have a moral backbone; without this, they may act immorally despite being elected.
Rights of the People vs. Rights of the Person:
- While individual rights are crucial, the collective rights of the people are equally important.
- The government should reflect the desires of the people, but caution is advised regarding majority rule.

Discussion points about when it's good or not to follow majority rule:
  - Positive example: When there is a consensus (e.g., in a non-controversial matter like color preferences).
  - Negative example: Major decisions like going to war should consider all perspectives, as the majority could represent just over half and affect many lives.
  - Cited example of a nationwide drought where governmental limits on water usage might be necessary despite public discontent.
  - Comparisons made to school dynamics, with older students typically being given more weight than younger ones based on experience.
Acknowledgment of exceptions; specific classes may deserve more attention regardless of seniority (e.g., the importance of one exceptional class noted).

Definition: The principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.
Benefits of egalitarianism:
- Ensures representation of all classes within government, promoting equity.
Contrast with Aristocracy:
  - Aristocracy: A government in which power lies with a small privileged ruling class (the nobility).
    - Advantages: Educated individuals who may understand governance better.
    - Disadvantages: Risk of corruption and self-serving agendas if the ruling class lacks virtue.

Context of declaring independence:
- Common Sense played a crucial role in shaping public opinion leading up to independence.
- The motion for independence by Richard Henry Lee was vital.

Key figures on the drafting committee:
  - Thomas Jefferson (main author).
  - Benjamin Franklin.
  - John Adams.
  - Roger Sherman.
  - Robert Livingston.
Thomas Jefferson: A skilled lawyer and writer tasked with crafting the document.
John Adams' misinterpretation: Celebrated July 2 as the day of independence; the formal declaration came a few days later.

Primary focus: A list of grievances against the crown (King rather than Parliament).
- Addressing the King: Colonists believed their issues were with the King rather than Parliament.
Notable omission in the final draft:
- Reference to slavery was removed due to its controversial nature; inclusion would hinder unity among states at that time.
Significance of the Declaration:
- A statement not just aimed at Britain but also intended for the world, particularly France, to garner sympathy and support in revolution.
- Enlightenment values cited: Life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.