Thomas Paine was a moral philosopher who wrote "Common sense" which was the most popular publication of the 18th Century and the theory that fueled the American War of Independence. In his work, he explains that America should be independent against British rule and all men are equal at creation and therefore there should be no distinction between kings and subjects. He also states limiting the powers of the king sufficiently would ensure that the realm would remain lawful rather than easily become tyrannical. He ultimately wanted America to become a free nation.
Two quotes that were interesting:
-"Yet that we may not appear to be defective even in earthly honors, let a day be solemnly set apart for proclaiming the charter; let it be brought forth placed on the divine law, the word of God; let a crown be placed thereon, by which the world may know, that so far as we approve of monarchy, that in America the law is king. For as in absolute governments the king is law, so in free countries the law ought to be king; and there ought to be no other."
-"In short, monarchy and succession have laid (not this or that kingdom only) but the world in blood and ashes. 'Tis a form of government which the word of God bears testimony against, and blood will attend it."
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