# The Crisis XIII: Thoughts on the Peace, and Probable Advantages Thereof explained — The American Crisis

> Chapter companion for The American Crisis by Thomas Paine.

## What happens

Paine celebrates the successful conclusion of the American Revolution and reflects on the transition from war to peace. He emphasizes the importance of national character, the necessity of the union of the states, and the moral obligations of society in peacetime. He calls for preserving the honor of the revolution and warns against disunity, while expressing pride in his own contributions to the cause.

## Themes in this chapter

### Unity and National Identity

Paine argues that the union of the states is essential for national character, security, and sovereignty, calling it 'the great palladium of our liberty and safety.'

### Hope and Resilience

Paine celebrates the successful revolution and the vast prospects for happiness, urging Americans to bear prosperity with the same virtue they showed in adversity.

### The Cost of War

Paine reflects on how war unhinges moral sensibilities and blunts finer feelings, but notes that the debt incurred is small compared to the gains of independence.

## Character check-ins

### Thomas Paine

Paine reflects on his role as an author for the cause of America, stating he avoided offices and party connections to serve the revolution, and takes leave of the subject as peace arrives.

### America

America is portrayed as having a fair origin and character, now transitioning to peace and prosperity, with a duty to preserve its national reputation and union.

### Britain

Britain is referenced as a former domineering master, now an ally whose 'exemplary greatness' has been acknowledged.

### Congress

Congress is implied in the context of treaties and national sovereignty under the United States.

## Key lines

> The times that tried men's souls, are over—and the greatest and completest revolution the world ever knew, gloriously and happily accomplished.

The era of hardship and testing is finished; the most profound and successful revolution in history has been achieved with glory and happiness.

_Paine opens by echoing his famous line from Crisis I, now declaring the struggle complete._

> Our great title is Americans —our inferior one varies with the place.

Our primary identity is as Americans; our state-specific identity is secondary and local.

_Paine emphasizes national unity over state divisions._

> It was the cause of America that made me an author.

The American cause inspired me to become a writer.

_Paine explains his motivation for writing, linking his authorship to the revolutionary cause._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_american_crisis_se/chapters/the-crisis-xiii-thoughts-on-the-peace-and-probable-advantages-thereof
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_american_crisis_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_american_crisis_se/chapters