Who wrote the pamphlet "Common Sense" in 1776?

In 1776, writer Thomas Paine published his pamphlet "Common Sense". In it, he set forth his arguments in favor of American independence. It was written in clear and persuasive prose. Paine marshaled moral and political arguments to encourage common people in the colonies to fight for an egalitarian government. It was published anonymously in January 1776, at the beginning of the American Revolution, and became an immediate sensation.

It was sold and distributed widely and read aloud at taverns and meeting places. In proportion to the population of the colonies at that time, it had very large sales and circulation. It still remains an all time best selling American book, and is still in print today.