The Rights of Man · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Rights of Man by Thomas Paine.

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Chapter 1
Editor's Introduction
Moncure Daniel Conway's introduction provides biographical context for Thomas Paine's 'Rights of Man,' detailing Paine's journey from America to France and England, his friendship with Jefferson and Lafayette, his invention of an iron bridge, and the political and literary duel with Edmund Burke. Conway contrasts Paine's republican principles, rooted in Quakerism and belief in universal brotherhood, with Burke's conservative defense of hereditary privilege and monarchy. The introduction covers the publication history of both parts of 'Rights of Man,' Burke's response, and the subsequent prosecution of Paine, highlighting their opposing roles in the French Revolution and the broader war between Royalism and Republicanism in Europe.
Chapter 2
The Rights of Man
Thomas Paine defends the French Revolution against Edmund Burke's attack, arguing for natural rights, popular sovereignty, and the right of the people to reform their government. He critiques hereditary succession and monarchy, contrasts the American and French revolutions with the British system, and calls for a new era of reason and peace.
Chapter 3
Part First: Being an Answer to Mr. Burke’s Attack on the French Revolution
Thomas Paine responds to Edmund Burke's critique of the French Revolution, defending the principles of popular sovereignty and natural rights, and arguing against hereditary government and Burke's defense of tradition.
Chapter 4
Dedication
Thomas Paine dedicates his work 'The Rights of Man' to George Washington, praising his virtue in establishing principles of freedom and expressing hope that the New World will regenerate the Old.
Chapter 5
Paine's Preface to the English Edition
In this preface, Thomas Paine explains his disappointment with Edmund Burke, whom he once considered a friend to mankind due to Burke's support for the American Revolution. Paine recounts his time in Paris, his promise to answer Burke's forthcoming pamphlet attacking the French Revolution, and his efforts to promote peace between England and France. He also mentions a letter from a French minister advocating for better relations, which he had shared with Burke, and criticizes Burke for sowing discord between nations.

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Editor's Introduction

The Rights of Man

Part First: Being an Answer to Mr. Burke’s Attack on the French Revolution

Dedication

Paine's Preface to the English Edition