AP Success - AP US History: Revolutionary Rhetoric of Thomas Paine
Common Sense, Thomas Paine, 1776"I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to show, a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain. I repeat the challenge, not a single advantage is derived. Our corn will fetch its price in any market in Europe, and our imported goods must be paid for buy them where we will. But the injuries and disadvantages we sustain by that connection, are without number; and our duty to mankind I at large, as well as to ourselves, instruct us to renounce the alliance: Because, any submission to, or dependence on Great Britain, tends directly to involve this continent in European wars and quarrels; and sets us at variance with nations, who would otherwise seek our friendship, and against whom, we have neither anger nor complaint. As Europe is our market for trade, we ought to form no partial connection with any part of it."
Question 1
According to Thomas Paine in 'Common Sense', what is a primary disadvantage of the American colonies' connection with Great Britain?
Inability to establish independent diplomatic relations
Economic dependence on British trade policies
Involvement in European wars and quarrels
Lack of access to European markets for American corn
Question 2
What argument does Thomas Paine use to persuade his readers to support independence from Great Britain?
The benefits of maintaining traditional ties with the British monarchy
The cultural similarities between Americans and Europeans
The absence of any advantages from the connection with Great Britain
The potential for forming a stronger military alliance with France
Question 3
Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' is an example of which of the following?
Patriotic propaganda advocating for American independence
A diplomatic plea for improved trade relations with Europe
A loyalist tract defending the British government's policies
An economic treatise on the principles of free market capitalism
Question 4
What does Thomas Paine suggest the American colonies should do in their dealings with Europe?
Rely on Great Britain to negotiate trade agreements on their behalf
Seek alliances only with nations hostile to Great Britain
Maintain exclusive trading rights with Great Britain for security
Form no partial connection with any part of Europe
Question 5
In 'Common Sense', Thomas Paine's reference to 'our duty to mankind at large' is an appeal to which of the following principles?
Colonial loyalty to the British Empire
Universal rights and the common good
Economic self-interest of the American colonies
British legal traditions and the Magna Carta
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