Arguments of Independence
Paine provided clear arguments for separation, as well as a standard, “to be free at home and to serve as an example to the world.” Thomas Paine presents the issue of neglect and economy. Paine believes when creating the American colonies, Great Britain only had an interest and not an attachment. Europe is deeply embedded in kingdoms so whenever a war breaks out with Great Britain and a foreign power, the American trade falls to ruins because the connection to Britain. Paine believes that if they were to be independent, they could support themselves with their natural resources. They would not have to go abroad nor rely on any other country for resources. As well as build a navy from their natural resources. The Navy would be worth more than what it would cost to build. The national policy would commerce and protection would be united. Paine argues for immediate action with fewer numbers, the more land that has yet to be unoccupied.
Chalmers argues that independence is a dangerous dream for America that would result in them losing their most valuable partner in trade and leave them vulnerable to invasion. Although Chalmers contradicts himself because France helps the colonies during the American Revolution by fighting with them against Great Britain. France even backs the colonies all the way to their independence. Chalmers believes that the advantages of staying with Great Britain would be religion, liberty, and commerce.
I believe Thomas Paine’s argument of independence is more sound and convincing, in comparison to James Chalmers’ argument. Paine believed that independence would send a wave of relief through being at peace with other nations. Chalmers believed that American independence would create a tyranny.