Heavy Lies the Crown: The Role of Common Sense in Shifting Colonial Blame from Parliament to King in 1776

Authors

Megan L. Tocci, University of Northern ColoradoFollow

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. T.J. Tomlin

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to provide an effective analysis of the role of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense in shaping colonial resentment of the Crown in 1776. The study draws upon primary newspaper sources from across the Atlantic seaboard, as well as books and academic journal articles published by leading historians. While most research of the American revolutionary period recognizes colonial frustration with the British Empire was primarily focused upon the actions of Parliament, little research traces the public’s changing relationship to the King. This analysis showcases the link between Common Sense and changing colonial perception and postulates that said pamphlet served as a main catalyst for such a shift.

Recommended Citation

Tocci, Megan L. (2018) "Heavy Lies the Crown: The Role of Common Sense in Shifting Colonial Blame from Parliament to King in 1776," Ursidae: The Undergraduate Research Journal at the University of Northern Colorado: Vol. 7: No. 3, Article 5.
Available at: https://digscholarship.unco.edu/urj/vol7/iss3/5

UNCO Undergraduate Verification

1