Early American revolutionary topic of free discussion at Fairfield University Bookstore | Press Releases

Image: Patricia Behre Thomas Paine, a fascinating and controversial Revolutionary War figure, will be the topic of a free discussion on Thursday, April 12 at 1:30 p.m. at the Fairfield University Bookstore, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield. Patricia Behre, Ph.D., associate professor of history , will lead the talk, part of the University's Learning for a Lifetime Program. It is free and open to the public.

At two early moments in the American Revolution, English-born Thomas Paine played a pivotal role. As the author of Common Sense, he made the case for separation from England months before the founders wrote the Declaration of Independence, and to a much wider audience. Later in that same year, George Washington would read to his troops another work by Paine, beginning with the now famous lines "These are the times that try men's souls."

This talk explores Paine's controversial religious beliefs, as well as his political philosophy; and against the backdrop of two revolutions, fought on two different continents.

For more information, call Elizabeth Hastings, director, Community and Lifetime Education, at (203) 254-4000, ext. 2688.