The American Crisis

In his seventh essay Paine addresses the people of England, writing that their country is in a “wretched situation,” yet is too deluded to consider the possibility of losing the war to America. Paine explains that Britain has been foolish to act invincible and underestimate America’s strength and crucial role in Britain’s empire. He offers an olive branch to the English people, admitting that their distance shelters them from the violent realities of the war, and they may not be aware of British atrocities. He sympathizes with their position and remembers “a time when I felt the same prejudices” which time and experience changed (90).

The author claims that because of his knowledge of American politics, people, and resources he has a better understanding of the war than the British government. He accuses the British cabinet of always intending to conquer America, and notes the British public is responsible for delivering the substantial funds necessary for this conquest. The author argues that by reducing the American population and destroying their properties and incomes, Britain’s military campaign was only harming its own interests. Paine persuades his readers that it is in Britain’s interest that America become independent without conflict, since when America prospers, Britain will also.