But the injuries and disadvantages which we sustain by that connection, are without number; and

Question

our duty to mankind at large, as well as to ourselves, instruct us to renounce the alliance: because, any
submission to, or dependence on, Great Britain, tends directly to involve this Continent in European wars and
quarrels, and set us at variance with nations who would otherwise seek our friendship, and against whom we
have neither anger nor complaint. As Europe is our market for trade, we ought to form no partial connection
with any part of it. It is the true interest of America to steer clear of European contentions, which she never can
do, while, by her dependence on Britain, she is made the makeweight in the scale of British politics.”
1. What is Paine saying in this paragraph about America’s connection to Britain? How is it actually harmful
to American interests

Answer 1

In this paragraph, Thomas Paine is arguing that America's connection to Britain is detrimental to American interests. He asserts that this alliance brings numerous injuries and disadvantages that compromise both the well-being of the American people and their moral duty to humanity. Paine believes that submission to British authority draws America into European conflicts and wars, creating enmity with nations that could otherwise be potential allies.

He emphasizes that America's dependence on Britain compels it to become embroiled in British political struggles, effectively making it a pawn in European politics. This relationship restricts America's ability to form its own connections and engage freely in trade with other nations. Paine argues that it is in America's true interest to avoid entanglements with European affairs, as doing so allows the nation to focus on its growth and independence, and to cultivate relationships with other countries without the baggage of European quarrels. Overall, he advocates for a complete renunciation of the alliance with Britain to protect and promote America’s interests and sovereignty.