By Ellery Sedgwick

This book is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life and impact of one of the most influential political thinkers of the 18th century. Published in 1899, the book explores Paine's radical philosophy and his significant contributions to revolutionary thought in both America and Europe. Sedgwick provides a detailed analysis of Paine's major works, including “Common Sense” and “The Rights of Man,” and examines the controversies and challenges Paine faced throughout his life.

Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 53p.

By Richard Carlile

Richard Carlile's "The Life of Thomas Paine," published in 1821, is a detailed biography that aims to provide a comprehensive and unvarnished account of Thomas Paine's life and contributions. The book is structured to accompany Paine's writings, offering readers insights into his mind, principles, and works.

Carlile begins by discussing Paine's early life in Thetford, England, his education, and his initial career as a staymaker. Paine's journey from a staymaker to a prominent political thinker is highlighted, including his brief stint at sea and his eventual turn to excise work. His early literary efforts, such as "The Case of the Officers of Excise," are noted for their clarity and impact.

The biography delves into Paine's move to America, where he became a key figure in the American Revolution. His pamphlet "Common Sense" is credited with galvanizing American sentiment towards independence. Carlile also covers Paine's involvement in the French Revolution, his opposition to the execution of Louis XVI, and his subsequent imprisonment during the Reign of Terror.

Carlile provides a balanced view of Paine, acknowledging both his contributions and controversies. He discusses Paine's later works, including "The Rights of Man" and "The Age of Reason," and his efforts to promote political and social reforms. The biography also touches on Paine's personal life, his relationships, and his final years in America.

Overall, Carlile's work is a tribute to Paine's enduring legacy as a champion of liberty and human rights. The biography is noted for its thorough research and objective tone, making it a valuable resource for understanding the life and impact of Thomas Paine.

Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 28p.

By Ellery Sedgwick and Richard Carlile

Thomas Paine, one of the most influential political thinkers of the 18th century, played a crucial role in shaping revolutionary thought in both America and Europe. His writings, including *Common Sense* and *The Rights of Man*, championed democracy, individual rights, and the overthrow of oppressive governments. Given his enduring impact, numerous biographers have sought to interpret his life and legacy, each bringing a unique perspective to his story.

Though writing in different eras and contexts, Ellery Sedgwick and Richard Carlile explored Paine’s radical philosophy and the controversies surrounding his life. Sedgwick, a historian and editor, approached Paine’s biography with a more traditional scholarly lens, analyzing his ideas within the broader intellectual movements of the time. Carlile, a 19th-century political radical and free-speech advocate, viewed Paine as a heroic figure in the struggle for reform, often emphasizing his persecution and the suppression of his works. Together, these biographies offer contrasting yet complementary portraits of Paine, reflecting both the man and the ever-evolving debate over his contributions to political and social thought.

"Thomas Paine" 1899. "Life of Thomas Paine" 1821. This combined edition 2025. 108p.

Edited by Allan Nevins

Preface: Brand Whitlock, U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, began keeping a diary during theGerman invasion. The diary spans over twenty notebooks, covering the Great War and its immediate aftermath, focusing on Belgium.The selection in the book ends with Whitlock’s resignation as Ambassador.The diary provides a frank account of the revictualing of Belgium, the suffering of theBelgian people under German occupation, European politics post-Armistice, and Whitlock’s personal growth. Whitlock had a dual view of Belgium: admiration for its cultural heritage and a critical perspective on its modern industrial state.He had limited time to acquaint himself with Belgium before the war, focusing initially on the aristocratic and artistic circles of Brussels.

Chapter I: The German Invasion Germany declared war on Russia on August 1, 1914, and invaded Luxembourg and Belgium shortly after.Belgium refused Germany’s ultimatum to allow troops to pass through, leading to the German invasion on August 4.The Belgian army,under King Albert, made a heroic stand at Liege, delaying theGerman advance.Whitlock describes the mobilization of the Belgian army, the patriotic fervor, and the impact on civilians.The King addressed Parliament, emphasizing national unity and resistance.Whitlock recounts his interactions with various diplomats and the challenges faced by Americans and Germans in Brussels.The fall of Liege and the subsequent German advance are detailed, with Whitlocknoting the bravery of the Belgian soldiers and the suffering of the civilian population.

Overall, the document provides a detailed account of the early days of World War I in Belgium, the German invasion, and the establishment of relief efforts to support theBelgian population. Whitlock’s diary offers insights into the political, social, and humanitarian challenges faced during this period.

D. Appleton-Century Company, Incorporated, 1936, 734 pages