Epistle to the Quakers

Common Sense by Thomas Paine
Published 1776

To the Representatives of the Religious Society of the People called Quakers:

The writer of this is not one of your society, but he hath endeavored to conduct his arguments in a manner respectful to your principles. He acknowledges your right to hold opinions, and your freedom to publish them. But when those opinions interfere with the public cause, and are published at a time when silence would be more becoming, it is necessary to examine them.

The author of Common Sense has seen your late address to the people, in which you disapprove of war and recommend peace. He respects your sincerity, but he cannot help observing that your principles, however good in private life, are not suited to the present crisis. The cause of America is the cause of all mankind. The struggle is not for land or riches, but for freedom. And in such a cause, even the meek must sometimes take up arms.

The Quakers have always been known for their pacifism, and the author does not wish to dispute their religious tenets. But he must point out that the doctrine of non-resistance, if universally adopted, would leave the world in the hands of tyrants. It is the duty of every man to oppose injustice, and when that injustice is supported by force, it must be opposed by force.

The author therefore calls upon the Quakers to consider the nature of the conflict, and to distinguish between offensive war and defensive resistance. America does not seek to conquer, but to be free. And in that pursuit, she must defend herself against aggression.

Let the Quakers continue to preach peace, but let them not condemn those who are forced to fight for liberty. Let them remember that the sword is sometimes the instrument of righteousness, and that resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.

Source: Public domain