Thomas Paine Ap Analysis

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2011 AP English Language and Composing Question 3: Argument Prompt
Thomas Paine’s characterization of America is distorted today due to the divisions and hatred that are prevalent in our country. Paine’s described America as a harmonious blend of residents from different walks of life in his 1791 publication. Currently, a simple search for news shows results of turmoil, protest, and detestation. People on both sides of the political spectrum hurl insults and accusations at each other, oftentimes refusing to take the other side’s points into consideration. Paine believed in miraculous rapport between American citizens, stating that “...union of such a people is impracticable...” , yet illustrating how people of different religions and races can live in solidarity.
In the 226 …show more content…
The United States has a government that is fair and protects its citizens. The United States has a complex system that is unrivaled by any other country. Our government grants each citizen rights and protects them through Congress, Bill of Rights, the Police force, along with other organizations. Paine’s perception accounted for the American virtues. On the other hand, some citizens argue that his perception is realistic today because of our free state, yet America is at war within itself. Paine realized the distinct fragility of our nation and painted a lofty picture of a tranquil society that has never been a reality.
Paine’s utopian beliefs do not exist in America. His goal may sound simple, but it is human nature for there to be conflict. All throughout history, humans have disagreed and battled each other. It is unfeasible to believe that a society can live in complete consensus, yet Paine’s perception of a diverse America may eventually become reality to a certain extent. If United States citizens make a conscious decision to banish hatred and bias in their everyday lives, in time America may reshape to be analogous to Paine’s

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