On the record
In short, other revolutions may have originated in caprice, or generated in ambition, but here, the most unoffending humility was tortured into rage, and the infancy of existence made to weep.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “In short, other revolutions may have originated in caprice, or generated in ambition, but here, the most unoffending…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine reflects on the unique nature of the American Revolution, born from humility rather than ambition or caprice.
Share
More from Thomas Paine
Jan 1, 1791
He writes neither in the character of a Frenchman nor an Englishman, but in the fawning character of that creature known in all countries, and a friend to none--a courtier.
Jan 1, 1791
They form a common policy throughout Europe, detached and separate from the interest of Nations: and while they appear to quarrel, they agree to plunder.
Jan 1, 1791
The object is not so much the produce of the tax as the justice of the measure.