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Past Present Future
The History of Revolutionary Ideas: French Revolution 3: Paine
Mar 9, 2025
Richard Whatmore, a historian of ideas, joins to delve into the revolutionary fervor of Thomas Paine, whose writings inspired movements across continents. Paine viewed France as the epicenter of change, yet found his lofty hopes met with disappointment. The conversation navigates the ideological clash between republicanism and monarchy, the paradox of war for liberty, and how evolving rights often sidelined gender and minority issues. Their discussion reveals the complexities of revolutionary ideals amidst the harsh realities of governance.
59:25
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Quick takeaways
- Thomas Paine's initial optimism about revolutionary potential in France evolved from viewing it as corrupt to seeing it as a reformist beacon.
- Paine's ideological rift with Edmund Burke illustrated contrasting views on freedom and governance during the tumult of the French Revolution.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Thomas Paine's Ideas
Thomas Paine initially viewed the New World as the beacon of hope for liberty, distancing himself from Europe, which he believed to be rife with corruption. He was pivotal in igniting the American Revolution with his pamphlet 'Common Sense', yet his perspective evolved as he engaged with the swirling revolutionary ideas in France. By the 1780s, he began to see potential for reform in Europe, responding to the French involvement in the American Revolution, which he felt was crucial for its success. This shift in perception exemplifies his complex relationship with revolutionism, where he grappled with the balance between monarchy and republican ideals.
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