He met an American named Benjamin Franklin in London who told him he should move to America. Paine was in debt and needed a change in his life. Later, he got a job as a customs officer, but before long was fired. He then opened his own corset shop, but it failed. For a time, he ran away and became a privateer, sort of like a legal pirate. His early life and career was marred with disappointment. When he turned thirteen he became an apprentice to his father. Thomas attended the Thetford Grammar School where he learned to read and write. The Quaker beliefs of his father would also influence Thomas' other writings and political beliefs. Some people say that he was an atheist who did not believe in God, but he actually stated many times that he did believe there was a God. He wrote some of his essays on the subject. Thomas' parents often argued over religion and religion would shape a large part of his life. They fought for the rights of all people and considered all people equal before God. The Quakers were looked down upon by most of English society. His mother, Frances, was a member of the Anglican Church. Thomas' parents each came from a different Christian religion.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |