1. Libertarianism
Thomas Paine played a pivotal role in galvanizing American thought, with his revolutionary pamphlet, Common Sense, which spoke of such radical ideas as natural rights and independence. Statesman, diplomat, legislature and future president Thomas Jefferson, undoubtedly influenced by Locke, Smith and Paine issued the Declaration of Independence, which led to the eventual adoption of Libertarian principles. Jefferson clearly declared on paper that all men hold certain rights, which the government is obliged to secure and if it fails it is the right of the people to "alter or abolish" (14:1) tha...
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- Approx Pages: 28
- Grade Level: Undergraduate