The Inside Guide: Documents of Democracy

Many Americans are unfamiliar with Thomas Paine’s pamphlet, Common Sense. However, at the time it was written, it was one of the most important documents in what is now the United States. Paine’s challenge to the British government’s authority, written in language all Americans could understand, helped fan the flames of revolution. Like Paine’s pamphlet, this volume uses accessible language, explaining what’s in Common Sense and why it changed the course of history. Eye-catching photographs and engaging sidebars bring the document to life, immersing readers in the revolutionary era. In addition, critical-thinking questions help readers dive deeper into this topic.