Paine's incendiary pamphlet against British rule converted millions of Americans to the cause of independence when it was first published anonymously in 1776, and it remains as trenchant and powerful a call for freedom, equality, and progress today.

Richard Beeman and leading experts introduce the founding documents, pivotal historic speeches, important Supreme Court decisions, and historic writings, both revolutionary and inspiring, that express core principles and ideals, raise issues, and tell a story about the American experiment in self-government.

These are the words, ideas, and actions that have shaped American society and government since their founding and that continue to matter and empower.

Lexile Measure: 1330L

Historical. Edited by Richard Beeman. Paperback book, 116 pages, 4 x 7 inches.