The Rights of Man

In The Rights of Man, Thomas Paine not only claimed the people had the right to overthrow a government that doesn't recognize the natural rights of its citizens, it also advocated a welfare system that provided employment opportunities, child support, public education, and assistance for the elderly

Known for his political pamphlets and articles, Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was forced to leave England due to the negative response to his writings. He returned to America in 1802, where his persistent critique of privilege and religious beliefs lost him the support of the newly empowered.