Essays · Chapter
Appendix explained
Paine argues that American independence from Britain is both inevitable and immediately necessary, contrasting the simplicity of independence with the complexity and danger of reconciliation.
What happens
Paine argues that American independence from Britain is both inevitable and immediately necessary, contrasting the simplicity of independence with the complexity and danger of reconciliation. He emphasizes that delay weakens America's military capability and economic potential, and warns that without a clear break, the continent risks internal division and collapse.
Themes in this chapter
Independence and Self-Governance
Paine argues that independence is a self-evident necessity for America's prosperity and security, and that delay only makes it harder to achieve.
Economic Justice and Agrarian Reform
Paine proposes using the sale of back lands to sink public debt and support government expenses, linking economic policy to independence.
Critique of the English Constitution and Funding System
Paine criticizes the corrupt and faithless British court, arguing that no agreement with Britain can be trusted due to the nature of its government.
Characters to notice
- Thomas Paine
Author of the appendix, urging immediate independence and warning against reconciliation.
Key passages
“It is the commerce and not the conquest of America by which England is to be benefited, and that would in a great measure continue, were the countries as independant of each other as France and Spain; because in many articles, neither can go to a better market.”
England benefits from trade with America, not conquest, and that trade would largely continue even if America were independent, just as trade continues between France and Spain.
Paine argues that economic ties would persist after independence, undermining the British case for control.
“The present state of America is truly alarming to every man who is capable of reflection. Without law, without government, without any other mode of power than what is founded on, and granted by courtesy.”
America's current condition is dangerous: it lacks proper law and government, relying only on informal agreements.
Paine warns that the absence of a legitimate government leads to chaos and insecurity.
“Let the names of Whig and Tory be extinct; and let none other be heard among us, than those of a good citizen, an open and resolute friend, and a virtuous supporter of the rights of mankind and of the free and independant states of America.”
Let us abandon partisan labels like Whig and Tory, and instead identify only as good citizens and supporters of the rights of mankind and the independent American states.
Paine calls for unity and a shared commitment to independence and human rights.