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The American Crisis · Theme

Unity and National Identity

How The American Crisis develops Unity and National Identity.

Paine emphasizes the necessity of the union of the states, arguing that national character and security depend on unity, and that Americans must see themselves as a single nation rather than separate colonies.

Where it surfaces

  • The Crisis I

    Paine appeals to all states and all people to unite against the common enemy, declaring that 'the heart that feels not now is dead' and urging collective action.

  • The Crisis II: To Lord Howe

    Paine calls for love of union and cheerfulness for duty, asserting the dignity and sovereignty of the United States.

  • The Crisis III

    Paine stresses the need to distinguish Whigs from Tories and to unite all supporters of independence, shutting out disaffection.

  • To the Inhabitants of America

    Paine urges collective action and warns against half-measures, promoting a unified national effort to defeat the enemy.

  • The Crisis VI: To the Earl of Carlisle, General Clinton, and William Eden, Esq., British Commissioners at New York

    Paine emphasizes American unity and the noble, open treaty with France as a model of national identity.

  • The Crisis IX

    Emphasizes the need for unanimity, voluntary support, and collective action across all ranks to sustain the cause.

  • To the People of America

    Paine emphasizes that the union of America is the 'foundation-stone of her independence' and that all states must act together as one centre.

  • The Crisis XIII: Thoughts on the Peace, and Probable Advantages Thereof

    Paine argues that the union of the states is essential for national character, security, and sovereignty, calling it 'the great palladium of our liberty and safety.'

  • A Supernumerary Crisis

    Paine argues that only through united action can America counter British trade restrictions and preserve its sovereignty.

  • Endnotes

    The endnotes emphasize the importance of the Union of the States, as Paine argues that unity was the 'great hinge' of the revolution and essential for survival against foreign enemies.