Thomas Paine's Argument in The American Crisis No. 1 (1776)

Thomas Paine's The American Crisis No. 1 (1776)

Context and Purpose

  • Author: Thomas Paine
  • Published: December 1776
  • Objective: Rally Americans to fight for independence following the early losses against the British in the Revolutionary War.
  • Prior Work: Published "Common Sense" in January 1776 which inspired the revolutionary cause.

Key Concepts Addressed

1. Summer Soldiers and Sunshine Patriots
  • Definition: Refers to those who support the war effort only when it is easy or convenient, exemplified by their reluctance during tough times.
  • Quote: “The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country.”
  • Significance: Emphasizes the importance of steadfastness and loyalty during difficult times; true patriotism is tested in adversity.
2. The Tories
  • Definition: Tories are Loyalists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War.
  • Purpose of Mention: Paine criticizes Tories to rally true patriots by highlighting the dangers they pose to the revolution.
  • Characteristics:
    • Described as “cowards” motivated by self-interest and fear.
    • Held back progress due to their lack of bravery and negative influence on public sentiment.
  • Quote: “Every Tory is a coward for a servile, slavish, self-interested fear is the foundation of Toryism.”
3. Call to Arms
  • Motivation for Combat: Paine provides compelling reasons for Americans to unite and fight against British tyranny.
    • He argues that the fight for freedom should be regarded as precious and worth the sacrifice.
    • Quote: “What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly. 'Tis dearness only that gives everything its value.”
4. Evidence of Potential Success
  • Historical Context: References to the American retreats and their fortitude during battles against the British.
  • Future Prospects: States that the new army is gathering strength, with expectations to have 60,000 well-equipped troops to engage in the next campaign.
  • Quote: “Our new army at both ends of the continent is recruiting fast.”
5. Nature of the Conflict
  • Description of War: Paine insists it is not merely a war but a fight for liberty, justice, and self-governance.
  • Defense of Position: Emphasizes the necessity of a complete separation from Britain, equating compliance with decline into slavery.
  • Quote: “And if being bound in that manner is not slavery, then is there not such a thing as slavery upon earth?”
6. Ethical and Philosophical Implications
  • Paine invokes a higher moral order, suggesting that God would not abandon a people who seek peace and justice.
  • Moral Responsibility: Encourages all citizens to engage actively in the defense of their rights and freedoms rather than passively observing, emphasizing collective effort.
    • “Let it be told to the future world that… the city of the country alarmed at one common danger came forth to meet and to repulse it.”
7. Consequences of Inaction
  • Warnings Against Complacency: Those who hope for peace from the enemy are misguided; expecting mercy from an oppressor is folly.
  • Threat of Enslavement: Illustrates the dire consequences of failure, including personal and societal devastation.
  • Quote: “By cowardice and submission, the sad choice of a variety of evils, ravage a ravaged country, a depopulated city.”

Conclusion

  • Paine’s exhortation emphasizes that enduring hardships now is paramount to ensuring future peace and freedom for the generations that follow.
  • Final Remark: Demands a reflection on the current state of the struggle and the need for unity and commitment among all colonists; no one can afford to remain indifferent in this critical time.