Thomas Paine and Freedom of Religion in Revolutionary America

**Celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s independence by learning about a freethinking Founding Father!**

Thomas Paine’s incendiary writings inspired many Americans during the Revolutionary War and beyond. His pamphlet *Common Sense* encouraged Americans to overthrow monarchical British rule and seek independence. He also challenged the role of organized religion in society, questioning traditional Christian doctrine in *The Age of Reason*.

How did Thomas Paine’s religious beliefs shape his writings on government and human rights? And how did his views contribute to the concept of freedom of religion in early American history? Join us for a lecture by Dr. Vikki J. Deakin, Professor of History at Weber State University and author of *My Pen and My Soul Have Ever Gone Together: Thomas Paine and the American Revolution.* Dr. Deakin will share her expertise on Paine’s life and work.

**Speaker bio:** Dr. Vikki J. Deakin is Professor of History at Weber State University and author of *My Pen and My Soul Have Ever Gone Together: Thomas Paine and the American Revolution.* Dr. Deakin teaches courses in the American Revolution, US Constitution, Bill of Rights, Religion and American History, and African American History. Her book is described as the first true intellectual biography of Thomas Paine, and explores the origins of his beliefs and their influence on his political activism in both the American and French revolutions.

Event sponsors: Freedom From Religion Foundation Salt Lake Chapter and Salt Lake Oasis