Overview
- Thomas Paine’s pamphlet was first published on Jan. 9, 1776, at Robert Bell’s Philadelphia print shop near today’s 3rd and Walnut streets.
- Paine initially issued the 47-page work anonymously, signing it “By an Englishman,” in keeping with pamphleteering practices of the time.
- The text argued that monarchies are inherently corrupt and that independence from Britain was the necessary remedy.
- The pamphlet became an instant bestseller, spreading through sales and public readings and powerfully moving opinion away from reconciliation.
- The Museum of the American Revolution is displaying an early copy, and a historic marker stands near the original printing site.