The principal causes why independence has not been so universally supported as it ought, are fear and indolence, and the causes why it has been opposed, are, avarice, down-right villany, and lust of personal power.
From "The American Crisis," Paine identifies the human failings that hinder the cause of American independence.
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It was become evident, that no constitution, worthy of being called by that name, could be established on anything less than a national ground.
I know the value of moral instruction, and I have seen the danger of the contrary.