The time is 1775 and there is conflict on the American continent. The colonists are feeling the weight of British rule, yet are uncertain as to what they should do about it. It is a serious time of contemplation and discussion. Then, comes Thomas Paine, inspired by the simple axiom: Man knows no master save creating Heaven, Or those whom choice and common good ordain. -James Thomson, "Liberty" From that truth, Paine extrapolates the thoughts into the situation and published this great work. For many years it was the best-selling book of all time in America. It is no less importance today than it was when written. It deals, not with situations or with opinions, but appeals to truth as a real and constant principle of human existence. It is that perspective that launched the Revolution and brought The United States into being.