Final answer:
Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' made a convincing case for American independence, with particularly strong arguments against monarchy and for a representative government, appealing to common sense and resonating deeply with colonial sentiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' and Its Most Convincing Point
In Thomas Paine's influential work Common Sense, he presents several compelling arguments for the independence of the American colonies from British rule. One of the most convincing points, particularly, is the criticism of monarchy as a form of government. Paine argues that there is no justification for a hereditary monarchy and that if the king does not prioritize the interests of his subjects, then the subjects have no obligation to maintain their allegiance to the king. Aside from his critique of monarchy, Paine's pamphlet was instrumental in shaping the public opinion towards advocating for a representative government, emphasizing the need for a system where elected representatives govern states rather than a hereditary monarch. Additionally, Paine's appeal to common sense and reason struck a chord with many colonists, as it was written in simple, direct language that was accessible to all, not just the elite.
The popularity of Common Sense can be attributed to Paine's ability to articulate the aspirations and frustrations of the common people, his use of plain language that made complex ideas understandable, and the timing of its release, which coincided with growing discontent and the move towards declaring independence. Thomas Paine's arguments echoed the Enlightenment ideals, drawing on notions that government has a duty to the people, making his work an embodiment of the American spirit during the Revolution.
Ultimately, the impact of Common Sense was also felt in the concrete political actions that followed its publication, such as the recommendation of the Congress for colonies to adopt state governments, and the drafting and approval of The Declaration of Independence, which marked the official split from British rule and the birth of the United States.