Join the Institute’s library director, Thomas Lannon, to examine one of the most important pamphlets in American history that reshaped the political imagination of British North America: Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, published in January 1776. Written in direct, accessible language, it challenged monarchy, argued for independence and urged ordinary readers to see themselves as agents of historical change. This Lunch Bite marks the 250th anniversary of Common Sense by exploring how Paine’s words circulated, why they resonated so powerfully in 1776 and how the pamphlet’s arguments continued to influence revolutionary politics and popular debate. Drawing on contemporary responses and later interpretations, the talk considers Common Sense not only as a text, but as an event that helped propel a revolution.
Registration is required. To register and attend the virtual Lunch Bite, please use the link below.