About [A Collection of Two Works in One Volume] a. Common Sense;

By Thomas Paine

Published in 1776

First London Edition, with rare general half-title of Thomas Paine “Common Sense.” It was published anonymously on January 10, 1776. In “Common Sense,” Paine made a persuasive case to the Colonists for American independence. He linked independence with the prevalent religious views of the Colonies, creating a uniquely American political identity. It was written like a sermon using clear and persuasive prose so all could read and understand its purpose. After publication, “Common Sense” became the most widely circulated document at the time, going through twenty-five editions in its first year; one in six households owned a copy. This volume also contains the first British edition of “Plain Truth: Address to the Inhabitants of America,” a passionate response to Paine’s “Common Sense.” It was written by loyalist officer and pamphleteer James Chalmers under the pen name “Candidus.” The work was first published in 1776 in Philadelphia by R. Bell. This edition was re-printed for J. Almon in London in 1776. Written with vigorous zeal, the essay was in opposition to American independence. It argued why the colonies should remain part of Britain and urged for reconciliation between the two. While “Plain Truth” is Chalmers’ best known work, he spent many of his final years writing pamphlets against the works of Paine.