The American Crisis

Common Sense

By: Thomas Paine

Narrated by: David Stifel

"These are the times that try men's souls." With these words, Thomas Paine began a series of 13 extraordinary pamphlets reporting on the American Revolution. Part newsfeed, part op-ed, these pieces were widely circulated in the States and in Britain during the war. They reported on the progress of the war, argued for the reasons for the war, made recommendations on the conduct of the war, and taught citizens of a new country just what their obligations and duties were in support of their new country. A sobering series of lessons on beginning American civics 101.

Public Domain (P)2013 David Stifel

Required listening

Thomas Paine’s thoughts and reasonings should be the subject of every American high schoolers’ reading or listening attention. There is much to be learned and appreciated in these writings.

Too much Common sense

After listening to this for an hour; you're ready for some stupidity. History is dealt out in the form of letters to King George or his Generals. Pointing out their failings and ignorance. However a little of this venue goes a long way and is soon boring. Common Sense was originally dealt out in small portions in the form of a pamphlet and was quite popular for it's wisdom and wit.

did not like the narrator!

i did not like the narrator even one bit, he sounded completely bland and his reading cadence was terrible