How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I have heard it asserted by some, that as America hath flourished under her former connection with Great Britain that the same connection is necessary towards her future happiness, and will always have the same effect. (3.7)
Some people argue that American's connection with Britain is the main reason America has grown to be such a successful place. But the truth is that Britain is just holding America back and the only way to make things better is with armed conflict. Sorry pacifists, but it time to fight.
Quote #2
I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to shew, a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain. (3.17)
Thomas Paine is well aware that people have lots of reasons for not going to war with Britain. But he still likes to challenge people to give one good reason why they shouldn't. Why does he do this? Well, probably because he's the one writing and no one has a chance to talk back.
Quote #3
[A] certain set of moderate men, who think better of the European world than it deserves; and this last class, by an ill-judged deliberation, will be the cause of more calamities to this continent, than all the other three. (3.21)
For Paine, the most dangerous people in America are those who give Britain more credit than it deserves as a ruling power. Anyone who could possibly think that Britain is good is only going to poison the minds of true, patriotic Americans who need to stand up and fight for what's right.