Thomas Paine was a Patriot. He is best known for his influential writings that inspired the American colonies to seek independence from British rule. His pamphlet, Common Sense, published in 1776, argued vigorously for independence and encouraged colonists to break away from the monarchy. Paine’s clear and passionate rhetoric resonated with many colonists, helping to galvanize support for the revolutionary cause.
Paine’s writings went beyond just advocating for independence; he also called for the establishment of a democratic republic. He believed in individual rights, equality, and the importance of government being accountable to the people. This vision placed him firmly in the camp of the Patriots, who were fighting against what they saw as the oppression of British rule.
In contrast, Loyalists were those who remained faithful to the British Crown during the American Revolution. They believed that remaining part of the British Empire was beneficial and that the colonies should not break away. Paine’s actions and beliefs clearly aligned him with the revolutionary Patriots rather than with the Loyalists.