Thomas Paine
1737 - 1809 A Founding Father of the United States
Because his father was poor, Thomas Paine had a very basic education. To further educate himself, he attended lectures on physics and purchased books and science equipment.
Essential Facts
Immigrated from Great Britain to the American colonies in 1774
Published Common Sense a pamphlet that advocated that American colonists seek freedom from Great Britain
Published The Crisis in late 1776 to inspire American troops in their battles against the British
Advocated a world peace organization and social security for the poor and elderly
Traveled to France with Col. John Laurens to help organize the Bank of North America to raise money to supply the army
