Paine and Henry are similar because they both support war against England. They were both instrumental in the propaganda in the revolution yet neither benefited by holding a major national office after the revolution.
We benefit because the revolution may not have been successful without these two brilliant administers of propaganda. The citizens may not have been united in the cause that they so powerfully spoke about.
Ronald Regan and Barack Obama because they can persuade people to their cause very well.

Paine Analysis

In his speech, Thomas Paine suggests that America goes to war against England using persuasive elements. Some of these elements include analogy and aphorism. Throughout the speech, he persuades America that Britain is doing only evil against the country and that it is time to fight back. He uses elements such as pathos ethos and logos as well as the analogy and aphorism to also help persuade the people.

One aphorism that encourages the soldier to continue his fight is “These are the times that try men’s souls.” This short quip is easy to remember and it serves almost as a fighting mantra as the soldier is reminded that he is not alone, but rather he is united with his fellow man in the fight for freedom from England. The fact that all “men” are being “tried” creates a feeling of comradeship for a common cause. Likewise, another aphorism which effectively persuades the soldier that his struggle is worth the cost is “the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.” Again, the short statement reminds the soldier to stay focused on “triumphs” no matter how “hard the conflict”. In this way, Paine inspires the soldier to continue the fight for America’s freedom.

Paine encourages the soldiers that god is on their side when he makes the claim that there is no way that “He has relinquished the government of the world and given up to the care of the devil.” By comparing England to the “devil” and America to being under god’s protection, Paine creates a contrast between heaven and hell. In this way, the analogy of England to the devil justifies the soldier’s morale and perseverance to stay strong in his fight for freedom. Moreover, Paine relates the king to a common criminal. This exemplifies how the king is a sinner and can only be in league with the devil. Therefore, god will help the Americans to defeat England.

In conclusion, Paine uses all of these literary elements to help convey his message to the American people. Had it not been for the usage of these elements, his speech would not be anywhere near as persuasive.