The American Crisis · Chapter
To the Inhabitants of America explained
Paine addresses the American people, urging them to seize the present opportunity to defeat the British army.
What happens
Paine addresses the American people, urging them to seize the present opportunity to defeat the British army. He contrasts the virtue of America's revolution with the corruption of Britain, criticizes the veneration of ancient Greece and Rome, and proposes a detailed plan for raising troops and supplies. He argues that the loss of Philadelphia was advantageous and that the enemy is now vulnerable, calling for decisive action to secure final victory.
Themes in this chapter
Patriotism and Sacrifice
Paine calls for virtuous ambition and equal burden-sharing, emphasizing that every man's duty is to support the common cause.
Freedom vs. Tyranny
Paine contrasts America's virtuous revolution with Britain's corrupt politics, asserting that without America, freedom would be lost worldwide.
Unity and National Identity
Paine urges collective action and warns against half-measures, promoting a unified national effort to defeat the enemy.
The Cost of War
Paine discusses the practical burdens of war, including raising troops, supplying blankets, and the financial costs, advocating for equitable distribution.
Characters to notice
- Thomas Paine
Author of the essay, directly addressing the inhabitants of America and outlining military and civic plans.
- America
The collective American people are the primary audience, praised for their virtue and urged to act.
- Britain
Portrayed as corrupt and tyrannical, having lost its own freedom and now attempting to enslave America.
- Sir William Howe
Mentioned as the British general whose earlier victories led to defeat, and who is now trapped in Philadelphia.
- General Burgoyne
Referenced as an example of an invader whose initial success at Saratoga led to his defeat.
- George Washington
Mentioned as commanding the army at Whitemarsh in a hypothetical scenario.
- General Gates
Mentioned as commanding the northern army that joined Washington in a hypothetical scenario.
- Tories
Mentioned as enemies to be expelled, contrasted with Whigs who welcome patriots.
Key passages
“The present spring, if rightly improved, will free us from our troubles, and save us the expense of millions.”
If we act wisely this spring, we can end our difficulties and avoid huge future costs.
Paine emphasizes the urgency of seizing the current opportunity for decisive action.
“We have now only one army to cope with. No opportunity can be fairer; no prospect more promising.”
We face just one enemy army now, and the chance to defeat it has never been better.
Paine highlights the reduced British strength and the favorable moment for victory.
“America has surmounted a greater variety and combination of difficulties, than, I believe, ever fell to the share of any one people, in the same space of time.”
America has overcome more challenges in a short time than any other nation in history.
Paine praises American resilience and achievement, arguing for national pride.
“The death wound is already given. The day is ours if we follow it up.”
The fatal blow has already been struck; victory is assured if we press forward.
Paine declares that the British are already mortally wounded and urges continued effort.
