Among the many writings that were published in this era, the work of Thomas Paine stands out as some of the most influential. Paine's writings advocate unity among the colonists, and in doing so, also offers a civilized voice of opposition. His works emphasize the importance of independence and a need to 'protect' the people. Understandably so, the colonists were tired of the mistreatment they had endured from British rule over their government, and the imposed countless taxes "without representation." …
