"Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one... The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind. 'Tis time to part." — Thomas Paine, Common Sense, January 1776
Which document most directly built on the popular sentiment Paine helped to mobilize?
- Acheck_circle
The Declaration of Independence, July 1776
- B
The Treaty of Paris, 1783
- C
The Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions, 1798
- D
The Marbury v. Madison decision, 1803
Explanation
Common Sense (January 1776) prepared public opinion for the Continental Congress's vote for independence six months later, formalized in the Declaration. The other items are connected to later events: ending the war, opposing the Sedition Act, and judicial review.