The Verbose Insomniacs
Persuasive Essays Unit
Background: Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was born in Shadwell, Virgina. Born into a wealthy family, Jefferson inherited many lands from his successful father. In 1762, Jefferson graduated from the College of Williamand Mary, where he practiced law. He became a member of the Continental Congress in 1775, and in 1776, was chosen to draft the Declaration of Independence, which later on became one of the most influencial American literature in history. He was the nation's first secretary of state, second vice president, third president, and the statesman responsible for the Louisiana Purchase. Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826
Thomas Jefferson
"The Declaration of Independence"
Background: In 1776, Thomas Jefferson was chosen, along with Franklin, Adams, and others, to write a declaration of the colonies' independence from England. The draft presented to the Second Continental Congress was largely Jefferson's work.
Literary Analysis: Click on the green box for the literary analysis for "The Declaration of Independence".
Effect: In result of the Declaration of Independence, America was greatly impacted. This document eventually created equal rights for men and women. It also influenced the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, and left lasting effects upon other nations.
Thomas Paine
Background: Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was born in Thetford, England to a Quaker father and an Anglican mother. He recieved little education; he failed out of school but did learn to read, write, and perform arithmetic. Sadly, Paine's life in England was filled with repeated failures and harships. Fortunately, in 1774, Paine met Benjamin Franklin in London, where Franklin advised him to move to America. Paine then began a career as a journalist. In January 1776, he published Common Sense, where he argued that Americans must fight for independence. Between the years 1776 through 1783, Paine produced The American Crisis. it became wildly popular and helped inspire the Army. Thomas Paine died on June 8, 1809 at the age of 72 in New York City.
"The American Crisis"
Background: Paine enlisted in the American army towards the end of 1776. At that time, the army had just suffered a crushing defeat by the British in New Jersey and had to retreat into Pennsylvania. Paine wrote the first of many essays entitled The American Crisis during this time. George Washington ordered his troops to read Paine's essay before they croosed the Delaware River to defeat the Hessians at the Battle of Trenton.
Literary Analysis: Click before for the literary analysis for "The American Crisis".
Effect: "The American Crisis" changed the mindset of most Americans. They were greatly inspired by Thomas Paine. He was able to convince the nation that without a fight, nothing can be changed. Americans were able to see that standing there while England introduced unjustified laws will do nothing beneficial their country.