Initially, Paine discussed how society and government are interconnected and suggested that a government’s effectiveness is determined by its capacity to safeguard the freedoms and properties of its citizens. He contended that the English constitution was inadequate in fulfilling this role. Following this, he criticized the idea of monarchy and succession by birthright, referencing the Bible to show divine disapproval of such systems. Paine asserted that America was capable of standing independently from England, remarking that after England's aggression towards its colonies, it had forfeited their allegiance. He believed American trade would thrive without England's assistance and proposed a system of representative democracy. Lastly, he commented on the military strength and potential of America. Upon its release, "Common Sense" gained remarkable acclaim, selling approximately 150,000 copies in 1776. George Washington mandated that the pamphlet be read to all his soldiers. As noted by historian Gordon S. Wood, "Common Sense" is regarded as "the most incendiary and popular pamphlet of the entire revolutionary era."
<span>The United States War Department was responsible for overseeing the operations and maintenance of the Army. It functioned from 1789 until 1947, when it reorganized into the Department of the Army and the Department of the Air Force, integrating with the Department of the Navy to form the National Military Establishment (NME). In 1949, it was rebranded as the US Department of Defense.</span>
Question 1:
The geographical positioning of Korea has significantly influenced its historical relationship with China. Due to China's closeness to Korea, the two cultures have significantly impacted one another, and considerable trade has thrived in this region. However, China's consistent governance and large population historically have given it a significant edge in military matters. Additionally, Japan's proximity to both nations has posed a shared threat that frequently prompted alliances.
Throughout the Ming dynasty, relations between the two nations were chiefly amicable and intimate, grounded in their mutual Confucian beliefs and their common heritage from Mongolian rule.
Question 2:
Tokugawa Ieyasu was the inaugural shogun and founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate in Japan. The shogunate governed Japan from 1600 until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Ieyasu came to power in 1600 and ruled until his death in 1616. At the time Tokugawa Ieyasu ascended to power in 1600, around 20% of Japan was controlled by himself or related clans.
Washington articulated that the government serves as the essential foundation of freedom; it encompasses significant authority and safeguards life’s liberties. He asserted that government is the "edifice of your real independence, the backbone of your calmness at home, your stability abroad; it ensures your safety; promotes your prosperity; and upholds the liberty you value greatly."
