Tom Paine's War: The Words That Rallied a Nation and the Founder for Our Time

Ten Books We are Looking Forward to in Early 2026 —NPR

In 1776, one man’s words—and the determination of American patriots—allowed our nation to survive its first crisis.

"Exemplary... Kelly explains why Paine and his writing mattered 250 years ago and why they matter now." —Booklist (starred)

Two hundred and fifty years ago, the Declaration of Independence marked the birth of the United States. But two essays of that era appealed even more directly to Americans’ feelings. In January 1776, Tho...