The American Crisis

Writing in 1783, Paine begins his essay triumphantly declaring that the “times that try men’s souls”—a reference to the opening line of his first “Crisis” essay—are over, and that the American revolution is “gloriously and happily accomplished” (165). He encourages his readers to reflect on what their country has experienced and reminds them that their country has the responsibility to be a different kind of world leader. Paine celebrates that America is not monopolized by any foreign power which interferes with its commerce or legislation and declares that America has the world in its hands.

Paine adds that America is known for its “fortitude,” and that even in times of peace a “fair national reputation” is as important as independence (166). He admits that wartime can weaken society’s morality as continual suffering “blunts the finer feelings,” but Americans have an obligation to preserve their country’s character in their actions (166). Paine explains that it was America’s revolutionary cause that inspired him to become an author and notes that he did not profit from his work but offered it freely to mankind. He reminds readers that he always believed that independence was achievable as long as Americans were committed to it and acknowledges that since the war is over, he will stop writing on the subject but will always feel proud of his contribution to the war.