Thomas Paine's Influence on Independence

As the war entered its second year, what was the prevailing sentiment among many Americans regarding their relationship with the British Empire?

• They hoped for a complete break.

• They still hoped to avoid a complete break.

• They were indifferent to the outcome.

• They sought to join forces with the British.

What news reached the Continental Congress in Philadelphia that increased support for an absolute break with Britain?

• A major victory in Canada.

• A defeat in Canada.

• A new trade agreement.

• The King's abdication.

In January 1776, who published a powerful argument for independence that was widely read across the colonies?

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Paine

• John Adams

How long had Thomas Paine been in the American colonies before publishing his influential work?

• More than five years.

• Less than two years.

• Exactly three years.

• Since birth.

What was Thomas Paine's view on King George III?

• He believed the King was a benevolent ruler.

• He scoffed at the idea of the King being a symbolic father.

• He advocated for the King's continued rule.

• He saw the King as a necessary evil.

How did Thomas Paine refer to the King in his writings?

• The benevolent monarch.

• The royal brute of Great Britain.

• The wise leader.

• The rightful sovereign.

What argument did Paine refute regarding America's relationship with Britain?

• That America was too large to be governed by an island.

• That Britain had nurtured America and made her rich.

• That America's distance from England was a disadvantage.

• That European wars were beneficial for America.

According to Paine, why did America suffer from its connection to England?

• Due to its vast natural resources.

• Because of the endless European wars it was dragged into.

• Due to its lack of a strong military.

• Because of its geographical isolation.

What was one of Paine's arguments for independence based on geography?

• America's climate was unsuitable for British rule.

• The distance between America and England was too great.

• America's rivers were not navigable by British ships.

• England was too small to govern a continent.

What did Paine insist about proposals for reconciliation after blood had been shed?

• They were still viable options.

• They made no sense.

• They should be pursued cautiously.

• They were the only path to peace.