In 1776, Thomas Paine inspired the American Revolution, influencing Founding Fathers like George Washington through his book criticising religion; when he died, only 6 attended his funeral

Thomas Paine's 1776 pamphlet Common Sense helped push American colonists towards independence from Britain, with George Washington later praising its influence. Paine went on to become a controversial critic of organised religion. When he died in 1809, only six mourners accompanied his body to his burial.