num_pages: 396
description: A fresh new look at the Enlightenment intellectual who became the most controversial of America's founding fathersDespite his being a founder of both the United States and the French Republic, the creator of the phrase "United States of America," and the author of Common Sense , Thomas Paine is the least well known of America's founding fathers. This edifying biography by Craig Nelson traces Paine's path from his years as a London mechanic, through his emergence as the voice of revolutionary fervor on two continents, to his final days in the throes of dementia. By acquainting us as never before with this complex and combative genius, Nelson rescues a giant from obscurity-and gives us a fascinating work of history.
language: English
title: Thomas Paine: Enlightenment, Revolution, and the Birth of Modern Nations
titlecomplete: Thomas Paine: Enlightenment, Revolution, and the Birth of Modern Nations
genres: American Revolutionary War, History, Philosophy, American History, Religion, American Revolution, Politics, The United States Of America, Biography, Nonfiction
ratings_count: 1941
publisher: Penguin Books