Revolution and Reform

Where it surfaces

• Editor's Introduction

  Paine advocated for peaceful revolution and reform, contrasting with Burke's support for war and the existing order; Paine sought an international Congress for peace.

• Dedication

  Paine expresses hope that the New World (America) will regenerate the Old (Europe), implying revolutionary change.

• Paine's Preface to the English Edition

  Paine defends the French Revolution against Burke's attacks, framing it as a struggle for liberty.

• Paine's Preface to the French Edition

  Paine advocates for reform through the united influence of enlightened peoples.

• Observations on the Declaration of Rights

  Paine defends the French Revolution as a 'Regeneration of man' and refutes Burke's criticism that it has 'gone too far'

• French Translator’s Preface (1792)

  The translator frames the work as part of the revolutionary moment, suppressing old forms (dedicatory epistles) to suit the free French people.

• To M. de la Fayette

  Paine discusses the timing of reform, advocating for a faster pace than La Fayette, and expresses hope for the extinction of German despotism through revolution.

• Of Society and Civilisation

  The American Revolution is presented as a model for discovering the true principles of government.

• Of the Origin of the Present Old Governments

  Paine argues that old governments cannot be reformed and that the only remedy is to begin anew on the ground of the nation.

• Endnotes

  Paine discusses the American Revolution and his role in it, as well as the French Revolution.