What is the main argument of Thomas Paine’s pamphlet, Common Sense?

Paine argues that America has flourished with Great Britain and should remain loyal.
Paine argues that American colonists need to establish their own government.
Paine argues that connection with Great Britain will keep colonists happy.
Paine argues that without Great Britain, America will stop prospering.

Common Sense was published in 1776, before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. During this time, there were 2 major movements in the country surrounding possible independence. First, there was the loyalist who believed in staying under the control of Britain. This group was mainly wealthy, white merchants. Then, there were the patriots that wanted to fight for their independence.

The population was still split on whether they should fight Britain. England was known for its strong army and navy. On the other hand, America had little to no army.

Quotes from Common Sense

To support your answer to this question you can also pick out quotes from the text. Paine maintains a strong tone throughout the text, so his position is clear. However, at times the language can be confusing due to the time period it was written in.

"O ye that love mankind! Ye that dare oppose, not only the tyranny, butthe tyrant, stand forth! Every spot of the old world is overrun with oppression."

In this quote, Paine attempts to rally troops against the "tyranny" of Britain.

"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one;"

Here, Paine describes how it is necessary for America to create its own government and how Britain's government is intolerable.