logo

48 pages 1 hour read

Thomas Paine

The American Crisis

Thomas PaineNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1776

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapters 9-10Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 9 Summary: “The Crisis IX. (Had America Pursued Her Advantages)”

Writing in 1780, Paine claims that if America had more forcefully “pursued her advantages” it could have gained independence years ago and calls Americans’ recent hopes for peace a “delusion” (110-111). He praises America’s “abilities and disposition” throughout the war effort, writing that while its people were generally peaceful but could also be “conquerors” when necessary (110).

He enumerates America’s military advantages, such as the land’s “extensiveness,” its resources, and the “universality” of the revolutionary cause. He credits the British attacks on Charleston for reigniting Americans’ passion for independence and explains that while losing Charleston to the British would be a loss, if it could renew Americans’ motivation, then it could ultimately be an advantage.

He posits that the present campaign in Charleston is an unprecedented opportunity which requires careful preparation. He argues if Charleston is not successfully taken by the British that Continental troops should prepare to march out and attack them as they retreat. He explains that because of Britain’s “malicious disposition” towards America it has declared war on France, which has sent naval and land forces to America to aid the Continental troops.

Paine rallies the American people to unify. He assures Americans that while collecting and using taxes is slow in America, it does not mean that the country is in a “general decline” as Britain has claimed.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock IconUnlock all 48 pages of this Study Guide

Plus, gain access to 8,350+ more expert-written Study Guides.

Including features:

+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools